WASHINGTON, D.C. – A bipartisan Senate Resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) in recognition of September 2018 as “National Prostate Awareness Month” passed the United States Senate unanimously. S.Res.645 is aimed at increasing awareness of prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer in American men, except for skin cancer, and encourages all Americans to take part in efforts to increase early detection, improve treatment, and discover a cure for the disease.

The American Cancer Society estimates that 164,690 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed across the United States in 2018 – claiming the lives of approximately 29,430 men. Joining Senators Menendez and Crapo as original cosponsors of this Resolution were Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) Shelley Capito (R. W.Va.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.).

“Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, yet it’s a highly preventable disease,” said Sen. Menendez. “Congress has a responsibility to promote awareness and encourage men across America to increase early detection and find better treatment, thereby increasing the survival rates of American men. Early detection is key to prostate cancer survival, and no one should think it’s too early to discuss testing options with their healthcare provider."

“Statistics show 1 in 9 men in our country will be diagnosed with prostate cancer,” said Sen. Crapo “Education and early detection are critical, and this resolution is a reminder to men to take action to prevent cancer.”

“It is of vital importance that men understand their risk for prostate cancer and talk to their doctor about testing. Early detection of this disease saves lives,” said Jamie Bearse, CEO and President of ZERO - The End of Prostate Cancer. “Though one in nine men will be diagnosed in their lifetime, 99 percent of men survive when their cancer is caught early. Together, we must forge a dialogue about prostate cancer and make the disease a national priority. It will save lives.”

The resolution is available here.