To the editor,
Cancers are the second leading cause of death in the U.S. More research is needed to understand the underlying causes of cancers for more effective prevention and treatment. A vote today for Proposition 15 to create and nurture the Cancer Research and Prevention Institute of Texas will help reduce death and disability associated with cancer and help Houston become a leader in this arena. ? The Cancer Research and Prevention Institute of Texas would be a valuable commodity in Houston. Houston is unfortunately a leader in lung cancer and in cancers associated with obesity. Natural partnerships and support already exist with the cancer work being done at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and related work at the Methodist Hospital and at the University of Houston.
Housed in the Department of Health and Human Performance, the Texas Obesity Research Center provides education with an interdisciplinary approach to obesity and related topics, such as cancer. Obesity is a top contributor to various cancers, and the Texas Obesity Research Center would be a natural partner for the Cancer Research and Prevention Institute of Texas.? The time to act is now. Obesity rates in Houston are higher than the national average, which burdens Houston with higher rates of obesity-related cancers. Let’s work together to stop the unnecessary suffering of our citizens. We have an unprecedented opportunity to improve the quality of life for not just Houstonians but for everyone. Take the time to vote ‘yes’ on Proposition 15 today.
Dr. Rebecca E. Lee Associate Professor and Director of the Texas Obesity Research Center UH Department of Health and Human Performance
