Rep. Somerville offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 27. 

A resolution to declare February 2013 as Cancer Prevention Month in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, An estimated 1,638,910 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the United States in 2012 alone; and

Whereas, Although there is no definitive method for cancer prevention, there are ways to reduce the risk; and

Whereas, Factors that are known to increase the risk of cancer, including cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, physical inactivity, poor nutrition, and overexposure to UVA/UVB rays, should be avoided; and

Whereas, It is important to have a heightened awareness of any irregularities or changes in your body so you can alert your physician; and

Whereas, Regular screening examinations from a physician can result in early detection and removal of precancerous growths; and

Whereas, Cancers that can be prevented or detected early by these screenings can account for at least half of all new cancer cases; and

            Whereas, Daily lifestyle choices can also have an impact on the likelihood of getting cancer; and

Whereas, The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends a basic three-tier approach consisting of physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day, maintenance of a healthy weight throughout your life, and a healthy diet of limited red meat and no processed meat; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare February 2013 as Cancer Prevention Month in the state of Michigan.