Sen. Linares: Male Breast Cancer Awareness Bill “Can Save Lives” Clinton Residents Support Legislation

Rep. Jesse MacLachlan, Gerry Campion, Margaret Campion and Sen. Art Linares.

Sen. Art Linares on Wednesday applauded the unanimous passage in the state Senate of legislation to raise public awareness of male breast cancer.

The legislation, which is being co-sponsored by Sen. Linares and Rep. Jesse MacLachlan, would designate the third week in October as “Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week” in Connecticut.

Sen. Linares said Clinton residents Gerry and Margaret Campion of Clinton travelled to the State Capitol on Feb. 25 to testify in favor of the legislation. The Campions are breast cancer survivors.

“While many of us are aware that October is dedicated to breast cancer awareness, not as many know that one percent of breast cancer diagnoses occur in men,” Sen. Linares said. “This legislation will recognize and support male patients and their families who are meeting the challenges of the disease. I thank the Campions for coming to Hartford to help raise this important health issue for state legislators.”

Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week has already been officially declared in several states, including Pennsylvania, Florida, New Jersey, and Massachusetts.

“By spreading awareness of male breast cancer, we can encourage men to take symptoms seriously, and urge screening from a medical professional,” Sen. Linares said. “That early detection can, and will, save lives.”

The bill (Senate Bill 112) now heads to the House of Representatives.

Sen. Linares (www.senatorlinares.com) represents Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook.