On the recordSeptember 17, 2015
September is Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month and a time to shine a light on a disease that is deadly. While some may not be familiar with pulmonary fibrosis, approximately 200,000 Americans suffer from the disease. This serious illness takes the lives of 40,000 Americans every single year, which equates to about one death every 13 minutes. That is the same mortality rate as breast cancer. There is no known cure for pulmonary fibrosis. There is no known treatment to extend the life of a patient or improve the symptoms. As a result, the median survival rate is just 2\1/2\ years, and as many as 80 percent of patients die within 5 years of diagnosis. Mr. Speaker, we have an opportunity to bring attention to this serious illness that affects so many. With more research and a renewed commitment, we will find a cure to this deadly disease, and I will keep working to make this a reality. ____________________
