Women Gather in DC to Speak Out About Prostate Cancer

Unite their voices for more research and outreach

WASHINGTON, July 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --In 2010 it is estimated that over 217,000 men will develop prostate cancer and over 32,000 will lose their lives to the disease. The significance of these statistics is multiplied when you consider the thousands of families impacted by the burden of disease and loss of their loved ones.

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That is why women from across the country will rally in Washington, DC to meet with members of Congress at the First Annual Women Against Prostate Cancer (WAPC) Advocacy Day, July 19-20. Wives, daughters, friends and loved ones of prostate cancer patients will unite their voices in the largest gathering of women speaking out about the burden of this disease on patients and families.

"After I lost my husband to prostate cancer, I recognized the critical need for women to speak up and become advocates for change. Entire families are impacted by prostate cancer and more needs to be done to ensure that fewer families suffer. We are asking for crucial research funds and more funding for outreach and awareness efforts across the country," shared Betty Gallo, Co-Founder of WAPC and wife of Congressman Dean Gallo, who passed away from prostate cancer in 1994.

The event spans two days and consists of integrated advocacy training and practice activities, anchored by visits to each participant's congressional delegation on Capitol Hill.

As participants meet with their Representatives and Senators they will stress the importance of funding for prostate cancer research, outreach and awareness programs, and the development of an Office of Men's Health. An Office of Men's Health would coordinate outreach and awareness efforts on the federal and state levels, promote preventative health behaviors, and play a major role in addressing prostate cancer.

Women have always played a crucial role in providing the emotional, physical and mental support for loved ones when diagnosed with prostate cancer and now they will use their voices to advocate and to help make prostate cancer history.

About Women Against Prostate Cancer

Women Against Prostate Cancer is a national organization working to unite the voices and provide support for the millions of women affected by prostate cancer. To learn more, visit us online at: www.womenagainstprostatecancer.org

SOURCE Women Against Prostate Cancer