Jon S. Corzine: “I express my support today for an important resolution, S. Res. 117, submitted by Senators Feinstein and Santorum along…”

“I express my support today for an important resolution, S. Res. 117, submitted by Senators Feinstein and Santorum along with Senator Santorum to designate the week of May 9th as National Hepatitis B Awareness Week. Hepatitis B is an extremely infectious virus that affects more than 12 million Americans, with 100,000 new cases expected this year. Unfortunately, many people don't even know they have this disease. And by the time they do learn about the disease it with Hepatitis B will develop cirrhosis of the liver or liver cancer. The good news is that we can beat this disease. Scientists have been working for years and have made great strides in the study and treatment of Hepatitis B. As kindergarteners through college students know, there are very effective vaccines available to slow the generational relay of the virus. And just last month the FDA approved a new treatment drug called Baraclude that seeks to alleviate symptoms for those already chronically infected with the virus. What I surprisingly discovered is that less than 10 percent of people suffering from chronic Hepatitis B infection are receiving treatment. During this week, I strongly urge people to talk to their doctors about Hepatitis B vaccination, testing, and treatment; to become educated about Hepatitis B, the symptoms, treatments and testing available; and to take steps to educate those around about Hepatitis B.…”