Young Oak Kim: “March is also Kidney Cancer Awareness Month, so I rise in support of all Americans suffering from kidney disease and to…”

“March is also Kidney Cancer Awareness Month, so I rise in support of all Americans suffering from kidney disease and to highlight the importance of regular cancer screenings and learning about their risks. According to the CDC, about 37 million adults are estimated to have kidney disease. Unfortunately, kidney disease is among the 10 most common cancers in both men and women, and 1 out of 3 Americans are at a heightened risk for kidney disease. I also take this opportunity to honor and remember one of our former colleagues and friends, Representative Jim Hagedorn of Minnesota, who tragically lost his life last year due to kidney cancer. Coincidentally, just recently, I found a letter he sent me just before he passed. As Jim used to say, ``Please visit your doctor regularly and get those annual cancer screenings. Early detection could save your life.'' ____________________”