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Supporting Women and Families
OFTHER THE Vas PLURIBUS OF UNUM STATES THE
President Clinton's Accomplishments
and Agenda
PHOTOCOPY
PRESERVATION
Your Hotline to The White House
Please let us know how the White House Office for Women's Initiatives and Outreach
can help you by answering the following questions:
This postcard is addressed to the White House. We look forward to hearing from you.
Would you like to receive more information on a regular basis?
Yes
No
Let us know how to reach you:
Name:
Address:
Phone:
Fax:
E-Mail Address:
President Clinton's Administration -- Supporting Women and Families
Place
Stamp
Here
The White House Office for Women's Initiatives and Outreach
708 Jackson Place, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20503
PHOTOCOPY
PRESERVATION
Clinton Presidential Records
Digital Records Marker
This is not a presidential record. This is used as an administrative
marker by the William J. Clinton Presidential Library Staff.
This marker identifies the place of a publication.
Publications have not been scanned in their entirety for the purpose
of digitization. To see the full publication please search online or
visit the Clinton Presidential Library's Research Room.
Progress in Advancing Women's Health.
An Administration Report Card
4
Intensified Research Brings New Hope
A broad spectrum of new research is being supported that bolds promise for increased
Improving Health Care Services for all Women
understanding of the causes of the disease and for the development of new diagnostic,
treatment, and prevention strategies.
Improving and targeting health care services to all women will safeguard
their health today and tomorrow.
Researchers supported by the National Institutes of Health have identified breast cancer
susceptibility genes that place women at increased risk of the disease. These findings
Implementation of the Mammography Quality Standards Act by the Food
hold promise for the development of improved treatments and potentially, to gene
and Drug Administration ensures that women today will get the safest
therapies that will prevent the disease from developing. The National Action Plan on
and most reliable mammography in their communities And a nationwide
Breast Cancer has published recommendations to address the legal and ethical issues
early breast and cervical cancer screening program, conducted by the
Progress in Advancing Women's Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is making these life
An Administration Report Card
arising from discovery of these genes.
saving screening tests available to medically underserved women.
The National Institutes of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency have
increased the research focus on the study of environmental risk factors for breast can
A National Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) related Inferrility Preven-
Improving women's health is a top Administration priority.
cer. And a new Federal Interagency Coordinating Committee on this issue is examining
tion Program, conducted by the CDC, is combating STDs, particularly
chlamydia - the most common, vet least readily diagnosed STD affecting
Through government-sponsored public health interventions,
how home, work, diet, atmospheric pollutants, drugs, and other environmental factors
may contribute to the risk of breast cancer and other diseases and developing strate-
American women and one that often leads to chronic pelvic inflammatory
today women live 30 years longer than they did at the turn of the
disease and subsequent infertility. New federal guidelines recommend
gies to prevent these health hazards.
annual screening for this disease.
century. In the year 1900, women died on average at age 48.
Ensuring Accurate and Early Detection of Breast Cancer
HHS IS implementing a major initiative, "Safe Passages", to promote
Mammography detects breast cancer early, when treatment is most effective. New
Today, women die on average at age 79. The major killers of
healthy and productive transitions from childhood to adulthood. Girl
advances in imaging technology will enable the disease to be detected even earlier and
Power!, a series of programs targeting girls, includes J public information
American women are now chronic diseases, including heart
with greater accuracy.
campaign to help delay the onset and reduce the use of illegal drugs
To ensure that women get the safest and most reliable mammography, the Food and
among girls between the ages of 9.14 years.
disease, cancer, stroke, chronic lung disease, and diabetes.
Drug Administration has implemented the Mammography Quality Standards Act.
An educational campaign to end the epidemic of adolescent smoking. This
Since 1990, alarming inequities in women's health have
Now, an FDA "seal of approval" assures women that their mammography facility
is of particular importance for girls and young women who represent the
meets the highest quality standards for equipment and personnel. Without this certifi-
fastest growing segment of the population who smoke.
been exposed - inequities that include the failure to include
cation it is illegal for facilities to operate.
A new Presidential Directive on Emerging Infectious Diseases has set the
women in research studies; the inadequate attention to gender
The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. implemented by
policy and provides coordination across government agencies to improve
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, makes free or low-cost mammogra
the surveillance, prevention, and national response to infectious diseases.
differences in the causes, treatment, and prevention of disease;
phy and Pap tests available to medically underserved women. To date, over 800,000
Although no longer the primary killers of women, today, infectious
screening tests have been performed.
the lack of funding for women's health concerns; the lack of
diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, and Lyme disease have become major
Because older women were not using Medicare's new mammography screening bene-
health threats to women.
public and health care professional education on women's health
fit, an educational campaign to encourage its use was launched by the First Lady with
New programs to fight the epidemic of domestic violence are being imple-
the Health Care Financing Administration and the U.S. Public Health Service's
issues; the lack of women's access to health care services; and the
mented. A National Advisory Council on Domestic Violence has been
Office on Women's Health.
established to develop strategies to eradicate this public health problem
dearth of women in senior medical and scientific positions in
New imaging technologies are being developed and tested to improve the early
from our communities Increased funding has been provided for the
detection and diagnosis of breast cancer, including magnetic resonance imaging,
development of intervention and prevention programs, as well as for
our Nation's health and research organizations.
digital mammography, and image-guided needle biopsy. And technologies from the
training of health care professionals.
Today, this Administration is writing a new national
CLA, DoD and NASA used to track spy satellites, to guide missiles, and to see distant
planets are being applied to improve the early detection of breast cancer.
prescription to improve women's health. The result is the greatest
These Federal programs and many more initiatives being supported by
Treatment Advances
the Government and the private sector are making significant progress in
focus on women's health in the history of our country.
The Food and Drug Administration has put cancer drugs on a fast track for review
improving women's health in this decade and beyond.
and approval. For example, medications approved in other countries or those found to
Prepared by the U.S. Public Health Service's Office on Women's Health
shrink tumors will be made available to treat severely ill breast cancer patients.
Department of Health and Human Services
New treatment approaches are evolving, including the sequencing of chemotherapies.
200 Independence Ave., S.W., Rm. 730B
the development of monoclonal antibodies shown to boost the immune system to
Washington, D.C. 20201
fight cancer growth, new drugs for advanced breast cancer, and medications to help
For more information, contact: (202) 690-7650
prevent the disease from occurring.
These Federal programs and many more initiatives being supported by the government
and the private sector are making significant progress in the battle against breast cancer.
Prepared by the U.S. Public Health Service's Office on Women's Health
Department of Health and Human Services
For more information, contact: (202) 690-7650
A New National Focus on Women's Health
Today, a new national focus on women's health is brightening the health
Imaging technologies from the defense, space. and intelligence communi-
futures for American women. With funding for women's health over
ties are being adapted to detect breast cancer and other diseases in women
$2 billion this year in the Department of Health and Human Services
earlier and with greater accuracy.
(HHS) alone an increase of over $650 million 172 just three years
Life-saving experimental cancer-fighting medications are now on a fast
this Administration is intensifying research. developing innovative public
Waging the Battle Against Breast Cancer
track for FDA review and approval so that cancer patients will have more
and health care professional education programs, and designing targeted
treatment options.
An Administration Report Card
health care services for women.
Reproductive health initiatives are being implemented including: efforts
Federal departments, agencies, and offices as well as private sector organi-
to reduce the alarming high teenage and unintended pregnancy rates;
zations have been mobilized to advance women's health.
Breast cancer - the most commonly diagnosed cancer and
developing new and more effective means of contraception; developing
To coordinate and stimulate these efforts, a new senior level health posi-
new microbicides to protect against STDs and AIDS; examining the caus-
the second leading cancer killer of American women - affects
tion was created. The first Deputy Assistant Secretary for Women's Health
es and designing interventions for infertility; and evaluating alternative
was appointed to direct the U.S. Public Health Service's Office on Women's
one in eight women in their lifetimes. But, thanks to this
treatments for hysterectomy for non-cancerous uterine conditions such as
Health that coordinates and stimulates women's health research, service
endometriosis and fibroids.
Administration's commitment, there is good news in the battle
delivery, and education programs across the agencies and offices of the
Department of Health and Human Services.
Increasing Public and Health Care Professional Education
against breast cancer. It has become a top national health priority
For the first time, all of the HHS offices, agencies, and regions have
To help American women to lead long and healthier lives, new education-
The product is being measured in increased knowledge of the
established offices and/or coordinators of women's health to stimulate
al initiatives are underway to enhance knowledge of women's health issues
new initiatives on women's health issues.
and to improve the care that women receive by making sure health care
causes of the disease, improved methods of early detection, and the
professionals have date information and training on women's
President Clinton directed the establishment of the National Action Plan
health issues.
availability of more effective treatments. For the first time in
on Breast Cancer an innovative public private partnership to coordi-
A National Women's Health Information Center a comprehensive
nate a national strategy that is catalyzing action in research, service deliv-
recent history, the death rate from this disease is dropping
resource clearinghouse 15 being established to provide the public,
ery, and education about this disease. Funding for breast cancer programs
health care professionals, and researchers with access to state-of-the-art
has increased from $90 million in 1990 to over $600 million today.
Federal and private sector information about women's health via 3 roll-
Significantly Increasing our National Investment
Intensifying Research and Improving Treatments
free number and the Internet.
Federal funding for breast cancer research, prevention, and treatment
Since 1950, are have learned more about health and disease than in the
A nationwide, 24-hour domestic violence hot line, 800-799 is
services has increased dramatically - over 513 fold from $90 million in
entire history of medicine. After years of neglecting women's health,
providing immediate crisis information and assistance, counseling. and
1990 to over $600 million today
advances from new research are leading to improved diagnosis, treatment
local shelter referrals to women across the country.
The Department of Health and Human Services' funding for breast cancer
and prevention of disease and disability in women of all ages.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's
has nearly doubled between 1993 and 1996 - from $271 million to
Women and minorities are now included as subjects in government-
National Women's Resource Center provides information and referral
$476 million - an increase unrivaled in recent history. Since 1993, the
supported research and in the evaluation of drugs and medical devices In
services 800-354-8824) addressing the prevention and treatment of
Department of Detense has committed over $450 million to breast cancer
addition, research is now addressing both gender and racial/ethnic differ
both mental illness and substance abuse.
research programs.
ences in the causes, treatment, and prevention of diseases such as breast
Healthy Women 2000, a series of health education conferences and educa-
cancer, HIV/AIDS, and heart disease.
President Clinton directed the establishment of the National Action Plan
tional materials sponsored by the U.S. Public Health Service's Office on
on Breast Cancer an innovative public-private partnership to coordinate
Research supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is now
Women's Health, focuses on critical health issues affecting women in our
a national strategy that is catalyzing action in research. service delivery and
focusing on the causes, treatment, and prevention of a broad spectrum of
country today and on the promotion of good health.
education about this disease. The Plan has awarded nearly 100 grants for
diseases and health concerns affecting women across the lite evele including
A video and health promotion education curriculum to encourage healthy
innovative research and outreach projects.
heart disease, breast and ovarian cancer, and AIDS. Major studies are
behavior among young women has been developed and distributed to
underway to examine adolescent and mid life behaviors and their effect
All Federal agencies have been mobilized to join in the battle against this
college campuses nationwide
on future disease and disability. The Women's Health Initiative the
disease with the establishment of a Federal Interagency Coordinating
largest clinical trial ever conducted is investigating the major risk factors
Educational campaigns are underway to inform health care professionals
Committee on Breast Cancer.
for diseases in older women and evaluating the effects of hormone replace-
and counsel pregnant women about HIV testing and treatments to
ment therapy and behavioral interventions, including diet and exercise, on
reduce the rate of HIV transmission from mother to child
The latest breast cancer information is now available from the National
the health of older women.
Cancer Institute free by phone (1 800-4-CANCER) and on the Internet
A first medical school model curricula on women's health issues has been
(Gopher @nih.gov).
Researchers have identified genes that increase susceptibility to diseases
developed to bring women's health into the mainstream of medical education.
including breast and ovarian cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The promise
Also, tirst of its kind directory of women's health residency and fellowship
of these discoveries is the development of more effective treatments and one
opportunities in medicine has been prepared and widely disseminated
day, a method to repair gene mutations so the disease does not develop in
the first place.
Fact Sheet IV
Expanding Access to Quality Health Care
Our families will never be secure, our businesses will never be strong, and our government will never
again be fully solvent until we tackle the health care crisis."
President Clinton
February 17, 1995
Every three minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer.
Every 12 minutes another woman dies from the disease.
Leading the Fight for Health Care Security for All Americans
President Clinton believes that every American should have access to quality health care and is committed to
achieving this important goal.
Strengthening Medicare and Medicaid
President Clinton believes that health care for women, children and older citizens must not be diminished. He is
fighting massive congressional cuts of Medicare and Medicaid, which serve approximately 20 million women. For
older women, Medicaid is the largest insurer of long-term care, covering more than two-thirds of nursing home
residents, the vast majority of them women. President Clinton is also a strong supporter of Medicaid nursing home
quality standards, helping to assure nursing home residents a safe and healthy environment.
Redressing Inadequacies in Clinical Research
Historically, clinical research has concentrated primarily on men. Under President Clinton, this inequity has been
corrected. The largest clinical study ever conducted-a study of diseases affecting older women is now underway.
The President signed legislation requiring that women and minorities be included in all clinical research sup-
ported by the National Institutes of Health, and the Food and Drug Administration has issued guidelines to
encourage the participation of women in all phases of clinical drug development.
Focusing on Breast Cancer Research
The lifetime risk of developing breast cancer has risen from 1 in 20 to 1 in 8 in just 20 vears. Funding for breast
cancer research and programs has increased from approximately $90 million in 1990 to $600 million today. The
funds span Health and Human Services and other federal agencies, including the Department of Defense and the
Central Intelligence Agency. A project has begun to explore how our national investment in defense, space and
other imaging-related fields may provide new technological approaches to improve the early detection of breast
cancer. In 1993, the Clinton Administration convened a conference to formulate a comprehensive and coherent
action plan to improve detection and treatment of breast cancer. By implementing the Mammography Quality
Standards Act, the Administration has put into place comprehensive standards that ensure the quality of mammo-
grams and the more than 10,000 mammography facilities in the U.S.
Offering Free or Low-Cost Mammography Screening to Those in Need
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program
offers free or low-cost mammography screening to uninsured, low-income, elderly, minority and Native American
women in 35 individual states and nine tribal organizations. More than 700,000 have been screened through May,
1995.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Researching Environmental Factors and Breast Cancer
The National Cancer Institute has funded several grants to investigate the effect of environmental and other risks
contributing to the high incidence of breast cancer. The Public Health Service's Office on Women's Health has
established a federal Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Environment and Women's Health that is
focusing on how home, work and atmospheric pollutants, exogenous hormones and other environmental factors
may contribute to the risk of breast cancer and other disorders.
Substantially Increasing Our Commitment to AIDS Funding
AIDS cases are increasing at a faster rate among women than men, and the Clinton Administration has increased
resources to reach women affected by HIV/AIDS. The National Institutes of Health, which created a Women's
Interagency HIV Study to identify the nature and rate of HIV disease progression in women, is requiring that
women and members of minority groups be included in all National Institutes of Health-supported biomedical
and behavioral research involving human subjects and has initiated a major research effort to develop female-con-
trolled barrier methods, including vaginal compounds, to prevent HIV transmission.
Caring for Women Veterans
A series of Veterans Administration health-care initiatives has been implemented under President Clinton. The
Veterans Administration has established four comprehensive health centers, four stress-disorder treatment teams,
and hired many counselors to treat the after-effects of sexual harassment and assault.
Established Key New Positions and Offices for Women's Health
In addition to establishing the office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Women's Health in the Department of
Health and Human Services, the President has signed legislation to mandate the establishment of the Office of
Research on Women's Health at the National Institutes of Health, the Office for Women's Services at the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and has established other offices of women's health
throughout Health and Human Services. the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and
Drug Administration.
Researching Health of Older Women
Under President Clinton, the National Institutes of Health is implementing the Women's Health Initiative, a 15-
year prevention study of the health of post menopausal women. With three study components that will involve
160,000 women, the Women's Health Initiative is the largest clinical study ever undertaken in the U.S. The initia-
tive is examining the major causes of death, disability and impaired quality of life: heart disease, cancer especially
breast and colorectal cancer-and osteoporosis. Within the next 10 years, the initiative will provide guidance on
the role of diet, the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy, Vitamin D and calcium replacements,
and changing unhealthy habits to prevent these diseases.
Responding to the Needs of Older Women
President Clinton established an initiative at the Department of Health and Human Services, spearheaded by the
Assistant Secretary for Aging, to bring focus to issues affecting older women and their families at the grassroots
level through education, technical assistance and advocacy. The major areas of focus for this effort include income
security, health, care giving, housing and prevention of crime violence. The centerpiece of the initiative is the
National Policy and Resource Center on Women and Aging, designed to serve as a focal point for coordinating
efforts to facilitate the initiative's goals.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Fact Sheet V
Promoting Reproductive Health Services for Women
"Certain choices are too personal for politics."
President Clinton and Vice President Gore
The President is committed to ensuring that all women have
access to reproductive health and family planning services,
that all women are able to determine the number and spacing
of their children, and that abortion is safe, legal and rare.
Reversed the Gag Rule
During his first week in office, President Clinton reversed the previous administration's attempts to prevent
federally funded family planning clinics from providing full information on options for resolving unintended
pregnancies.
Supports Reproductive Health and Family Planning
Under President Clinton, the annual budget for the Title X Family Planning Program has increased from
$173.4 million to $193.3 million. This program is the primary federal mechanism for direct provision of repro-
ductive health and family planning services to low-income women. It is estimated that subsidized family plan-
ning services, such as those provided through Title X, prevent more than 1 million unintended pregnancies and
500,000 abortions each year. In 1994, at the International Conference on Population and Development in
Cairo, the United States agreed with more than 150 nations to promote reproductive health for all women and
to address the threat to women's health from unsafe abortions.
Establishing Clinic Safety
President Clinton signed the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act to fight the escalating violence against
women and doctors at women's health clinics.
Moved Forward with Reproductive Research
President Clinton ordered that the ban on mifepristone, a drug that terminates pregnancy without surgery, be
revisited. Currently, the drug is undergoing clinical trials in the U.S.
Establishing Services for Victims of Rape and Incest
Under President Clinton, the Department of Health and Human Services implemented a congressionally
ordered change to Medicaid to include abortion services for women whose pregnancies result from rape or
incest, in addition to saving the life of the woman.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Fact Sheet VI
Caring for our Children
"There are certain fundamental national needs that should be addressed in every state, north and
south, east and west - school lunches in all our schools, nutrition for pregnant women and infants
- All these things are in the national interest."
President Clinton
1995 State of the Union
More than 5 million children are hungry each month in the U.S.
Committed to Protecting Medicaid - The Health Safety Net
for Our Children
Committed to Protecting Medicaid - The Health Safety Net for Our Children
President Clinton is fighting to maintain the health care protection that Medicaid provides. Medicaid is the social
safety net that makes health care possible for millions of our nation's children, children who are disabled or who
suffer from chronic illness. Some in Congress are proposing to cut $165 billion in Medicaid benefits to millions of
low-income mothers and children and elderly and disabled Americans. The President is working to ensure that
Medicaid is there to provide vital health care for those who cannot afford it.
Developed the Childhood Immunization Plan
President Clinton signed the Comprehensive Childhood Immunization Initiative SO that children will be vacci-
nated against disease. The initiative makes vaccines affordable for families and improves immunization outreach.
The goal is simple: 90 percent of all two year olds should be fully vaccinated by the year 2000.
Expanded Nutrition Services for Women, Infants and Children
The Clinton Administration has increased funding for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women,
Infants and Children (WIC) each year since fiscal year 1993 by a total of 18 percent. The Administration has also
aggressively pursued cost containment initiatives such as infant formula rebates that have provided additional funds to
handle more eligible participants. WIC works: Every $1 invested in WIC saves up to $4.25 in health care costs.
Launched Strategies to Reduce Teen Pregnancy
Under President Clinton's leadership, the Administration is developing new strategies to address the high rate of
teen pregnancy in this country: The efforts are designed to encourage communities to build partnerships and to
discover what strategies work. The Administration has supported innovative demonstration programs and expanded
existing programs in communities all across the U.S.
Implementing the School Meals Initiative for Healthy Children
The Clinton Administration's School Meals Initiative for Healthy Children, an integrated comprehensive plan,
improves the nutrition standards for school meals by requiring that they meet the Dietary Guidelines for
Americans. This initiative also provides administrative streamlining and offers schools the implementation flexibil-
ity that best suits their program.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300. FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Protecting Women's Health by Preventing Teen Smoking
Smoking rates are alarmingly high for teenage girls. Tobacco raises a woman's risk of having cancer, heart disease,
low birth weight babies, lung disease, and osteoporosis. Almost all smoking begins during the teen years, and pre-
venting addiction during this period almost guarantees women will not smoke as adults. The Administration has
launched a major, multi-pronged campaign to prevent teenagers from smoking and then becoming addicted to
nicotine.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Fact Sheet VII
Generating Business and Economic Opportunities for Women
"Women entreprenuers are a dvnamic force in our nation's current economic expansion. My Administration will continue to
aggressively pursue forward-looking initiatives that will foster the success of these women-owned businesses, which con-
tribute well over $1 trillion in receipts to our nation's economy."
President Clinton
January 29, 1996
Women-owned businesses contribute more than $1 trillion in
sales to the U.S. economy annually.
Supporting the Family-Friendly Workplace
Under President Clinton's leadership, the Department of Labor's Women's Bureau launched a nationwide initia-
tive to improve the lives of working Americans by encouraging employers to improve working conditions for work-
ing women and families. Under the Honor Roll program, the bureau is encouraging commitments from employ-
ers to improve pay and benefits, create a family-friendly workplace and value women's work through training and
advancement.
Making Working Women Count
The Department of Labor's Women's Bureau surveyed over 250,000 working women to learn more about their
workplace experiences. The bureau is working to address the concerns expressed by survey participants: better pay
and benefits, balancing work and family, and workplace recognition.
Increased Small Business Administration Lending to Women by 86 Percent
A significant number of women business owners must use credit cards and personal resources to maintain or
finance their businesses. The Small Business Administration under President Clinton has increased the volume of
loans to women by 86 percent from 1993 to 1994 alone.
Increasing Federal Procurement Contracts for Women
Supported by President Clinton, in 1994 the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act for the first time explicitly
opened up federal procurement contracts and subcontracts to women-owned businesses.
Expanding Small Business Administration's Women's Demonstration Program
Under President Clinton, the Small Business Administration added 19 centers nationwide to its Women's
Demonstration Program. The women's business sites offer financial management, marketing, procurement, tech-
nical and other assistance to women to launch a business or to run one more successfully. Each site is tailored to
meet the needs of the community.
Created a Forum to Address Women's Economic Issues
The President's Interagency Committee on Women's Business Enterprise comprises senior officials from 10 fed-
eral agencies, ensuring that women's economic issues are addressed at the highest policy-making levels. The com-
mittee released a report showing clearly the dramatic economic impact women-owned businesses have on our
nation's economy and highlighted the Clinton Administration's many pro-woman entrepreneur initiatives.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Helpful Clinton Administration Resource Numbers
for Women and Families
Business
Health
(202)-205-6673
President's Interagency Committee on Womens
1-800-799-SAFE
National Domestic Violence Hotline (Call for infor-
Business Enterprise (Call for information and assistance
mation on domestic violence, emergency shelters. legal
on women entrpreneurial issues)
advocacy, assistance programs. social services, and bat-
1-800-827-5335
Department of abor Women's Bureau Clearinghouse
terers' programs)
(Cull for information on women's legal rights in the work-
(202) 690-7650
Public Health Service. Office on Women's Health
place).
(Call for general information on resources. services and
(202) 219-6611
Department of Labor Women's Bureau, general office
education on women's health programs in the federal
(Call for information concerning economic and intend-
government).
tional ISSUES).
(301) 594-4000
Public Health Service, Office of Population Affairs
(202) 205-6673
U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Women's
Call for referral to regional federally funded family
Business Ownership (specifically created to help women
planning clinics).
entrepreneurs)
(301) 402-1770
Office of Research on Women's Health, National
1-800-8-ASK-SBA
U.S. Small Business Administration (Call for informa-
Institutes of Health (Call for information about
tion on managing and financing a woman-owned small
women's health research al the National Institutes of
business).
Health).
1-800-532-1169
Department of Transportation Short-Term ending
(301) 827-0350
Office of Women's Health, Food and Ding Admm-
Program (Call for dn application for a short-term loan.
istration (Call for FDA policies and regulations con-
favorable to women in small businesses).
cerning women's inclusion in climeal trials and
research).
(202) 512-1800
Working Women Count A Report to the Nation.
Government Printing Office. Publication #029-002-
1-800-677-1116
Eldercare Locator. Funded by the Department of
0082 Call for " copy of the survey results).
Health and Human Services Administration on Aging
1-800-669-4000
" Call for assistance for older persons and caregivers).
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (Call to
report sexual discrimination or harassment)
1-800-729-6686
National Clearinghouse 011 Alcohol and Drug
Information, Department of Health and Human
(202) 219-9475
Office of Federal Contract Complance Call to report
Services, Center on Substance Abuse Prevention
sexual discrimination in any company which contracts
Call for information on drug and alcohol abuse).
with the federal government).
1-800-421-4211
1-800-616-2242
Department of Health and Human Services. National
National Institute of Mental Health Depression Call
for information on depression)
Child Care Information Center (Call for information
concerning cluld care and other work and family issues)
1-800-54-WOMEN
Women's Health Initiative, National Institutes of
(202) 616-8894
Violence Against Women ( Office in the Justice
Health (Call to sign up for " study on preventing heart
Department (Call for help and information concerning
and lung disease 111 women ages 50-79)
domestic violence).
1-800-4-CANCER
Cancer Information Service. National Cancer
Institute Call for information about cancer and for
Education
referral to (111 FDA approved manimography center in
your area.
1-800-4-FED-AID
1-800-458-5231
AIDS Clearinghouse. Center for Disease Control
(1-800-433-3243)
Department of Education, Federal Student Loan And
and Prevention i( Call for information about AIDS and
Information Center (Call regarding information about
referral to research and medical services).
and Applications for student loans)
1-800-251-7236
National School to Work Program. Learning and
Children and Youth
Information Center (Call for information about imple-
menting a School-to-Work program in your area). Help
(202) 219-8412
Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division,
students make the connection between schoolwork and
Family and Medical Leave Team (Call to find out
career.
your rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act).
(202) 606-5000
Corporation for National Service, AmeriCorps Program
(202) 690-6782
Department of Health and Human Services.
(Call for information about Americorps. " program which
Administration for Children and Families, Child Care
loans money to students in return for community service).
Bureau (Call for referrals 11) local. federally funded
child care centers. along with information about
(202) 260-1856
Department of Education. Office for Safe and Drug-
national child care policy)
Free Schools (Call for information regarding federal pro-
grams addressing violence and drugs in public schools).
(202) 205-8821
Department of Health and Human Services,
Administration for Children and Families, Family and
1-800-USA-LEARN
(1-800-872-5327). Department of Education,
Youth Services Bureau (Call for information about
Information Resource Center Call for information
about and referral to any Department of Education
federally funded youth programs).
Program. including Goals 2000. Educate America
(202) 606-5000
Corporation for National Service. Learn and Serve
Program)
America (Call to apply for grants given to community
(202) 205-5463
Department of Education Bilingnal Education and
and school-based programs which enable children K.
12 to help alleviate local social problems)
Minority Affairs (Call for information about bilingual
education programs).
(301) 496-3454
Department of Health and Human Services, National
Institute of Child Health and Human Development
(202) 205-8572
Department of Health and Human Services, Head Start
(Call for biomedical information on children's disorders
(Call for information about Head Start, a pre-school pro-
and health. as well as preventative medicme).
gram for underprivileged children).
(703) 385-7565
National Cleaninghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect
(202) 260-2670
Department of Education, Women's Educational Equity
(Call for information about child abuse and neglect)
Act Program (Call for funding for agencies and organiza-
tions which implement programs to promote educational
(202) 647-2688
Department of State. Office of Children's Issues (Call
equality for women and girls).
for information about international child adoption).
(202) 514-4092
Department of Justice. Educational Opportunity Section
(202) 401-9373
Department of Health and Human Services.
(Call for information about federal statutes concerning
Administration for Children and Families, Office of
discrimmation III schools).
Child Support Enforcement (Call for information on
child support enforcement)
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH. 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Fact Sheet VIII
Supporting Women as Partners in Decision Making
"Women are beginning to participate more fully throughout this country in the life of America. As far
as I know, the sky is not falling anywhere."
President Clinton
August 26, 1995
The Baltimore Sun noted that President Clinton
has delivered on his promise to make diverse appointments:
"No Administration has ever produced such diversity."
Appointing Women throughout the Administration
More than 40 percent of the President's appointees are women, by far the highest percentage of any
Administration.
Six women hold Cabinet-level posts. the highest ever.
The President has appointed the first woman to serve as deputy chief of staff.
The President has appointed women for the first time to such positions as: Attorney General, Chair of the
Council of Economic Advisors, Secretary of Energy and Office of Management and Budget Director.
The President has appointed women to positions held traditionally by men: Chief Scientist at the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration; and Deputy Director at the National Science Foundation.
Nearly 60 percent of the President's judicial nominees are women and minorities, the highest proportion ever.
The President nominated a woman to the Supreme Court, only the second president to have done SO.
Two out of the three policy-making councils in the White House are headed by women.
Providing Expanded Opportunities for Women in the Military
The Clinton Administration has opened nearly 260,000 positions previously not open to women who wish to serve
in the military.
Convened White House Conference on Aging
President Clinton convened a White House Conference on Aging which provided specific recommendations for
improving the lives of older women. These recommendations will be incorporated into the final report of the
Conference which will be presented to the President and Congress for legislative and administrative action.
Created Interagency Council on Women
The President established an intragovernmental body to bring home the agreements reached at the United
Nations Fourth World Conference on Women to benefit American women and their families. Housed at the
White House, the President's Interagency Council is charged with coordinating the implementation of the
Conference Platform for Action and reaching out to America's non-governmental organizations to work for suc-
cessful implementation.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Making Sure Women Are Heard
The White House Office for Women's Initiatives and Outreach was created by the President to ensure that his
Administration better serves and listens to women. It serves as the primary liaison between the White House and
women's organizations, listening to women's concerns and proposals and bringing these ideas to the President and
others in the Administration. The office's main initiative, At the Table, is bringing hundreds of women to discus-
sion tables, enabling them to get their thoughts and opinions heard by the President and others in the
Administration.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
BREAST CANCER
How has funding increased?
Breast Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cancer
killer of American women. It affects one in eight women in their lifetimes; this is up
from one in 20 women just two decades ago.
The Clinton Administration has made a tremendous commitment to combating breast
cancer, increasing federal funding for research, prevention, and treatment services from
only $90 million in 1990 to over $600 million today.
This is the result of efforts in several different parts of the federal government:
HHS's funding for breast cancer nearly doubled between 1993 and 1996 with
$476 million currently being committed.
Funding for research at NIH has nearly doubled as a result.
Similarly, the Department of Defense has committed over $450 million to fund
breast cancer research programs.
All of the Federal agencies have been mobilized to combat this disease with the
establishment of a Federal Interagency Coordinating Committee on Breast
Cancer.
What is the money being used for?
In 1993, President Clinton directed the establishment of the National Action Plan on
Breast Cancer; a $10 million public-private partnership linking local, state and federal
governments in order to help fight this disease.
The strategy provides a framework and plan for activities in three major areas:
delivery of health care, conduct of research, and enactment of policy.
The Plan has increased research and education about this disease by awarding 100
grants for research and outreach projects.
The FDA has also actively assisted the ongoing fight by issuing regulations to implement
the Mammography Quality Standards Act.
The aim of the act is to ensure safe, accurate, and reliable mammography on a
nationwide basis.
Now an FDA "seal of approval" is required for facilities to operate ensuring the
quality of mammograms at the more than 10,000 mammography facilities
nationwide.
The Adminstration is also assisting the poor and medically undeserved.
A recent study found that 64 percent of women with incomes below the poverty
level have not had a mammogram within the past two years compared with one-
third of women with incomes 300 percent above the poverty level.
For this reason, outreach and screening programs must target low-income women
who have lower screening rates.
In combatting this problem, the CDC has implemented the National Breast and
Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program which makes free or low cost
mammography and Pap tests available to medically undeserved women.
Over 800,00 screening tests have been performed.
Additionally, because screening rates decrease significantly with age, an educational
campaign has also been launched by the First Lady with HCFA in order to encourage
older women to use Medicare's mammography screening benefits.
MEDICARE AND MEDICAID
There is no doubt that health insurance directly affects access to clinical preventive
services like those require for Breast Cancer screening.
Women who are insured are far less likely to have the necessary tests, exams, and
check-ups as they grow older.
Women currently represent 59 percent of the overall elderly population in
America and this percentage increases significantly among the very old. Typically
older women are poorer than older men.
These demographic trends have important implications on the status of health care
available to older women -- due to their longer life expectancies, women on average
have a greater need for affordable health care than men.
Because more than 54 percent of Medicare beneficiaries and 60 percent of Medicaid
beneficiaries are women, the Congressional proposed Medicare and Medicaid cuts will
have an immediate effect on women in particular.
What does Medicare cover?
As the primary health insurance for women 65 and older, Medicare provides a
wide range of services such as treatment for heart disease, high blood pressure,
and cancer.
Medicare will also pay for bi-annual mammograms -- women 65 and older are six
times more likely to develop breast cancer and seven times more likely to die
form it than younger women.
Mandated Medicaid services for Women include--
Hospital coverage, laboratory and x-rays, nursing home and home health, clinics,
family planning, and periodic screening.
Additionally, Medicaid is the single largest source of public funding for
contraceptive services. The federal government reimburses states for 90 percent
of their expenditures on family planning services serving 4 million women at 4000
clinics.
Medicaid also covers essential services for older women, including some not
covered by Medicare -- such as prescription drugs, dental care, eyeglasses, hearing
aids, and more extensive long-term care.
Significant cuts in Medicare would unquestionably hurt efforts at improving women's
health as research has shown that people who cannot afford to pay for health care often
will go without it. Older women with lower incomes are less likely to receive preventive
services because they cannot afford the copayments.
If Medicaid programs are restricted by narrowing eligibility and benefits, low-income
women will face large out of pocket costs, and physicians and other providers could be
hard pressed to accept Medicaid patients
As the debate about Medicare continues, these are some of the issues under
consideration as the President seeks to reduce the deficit while limiting cuts in Medicare
and Medicaid.
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
Violence has become a critical and pervasive health issue for American women.
Homicide is the leading killer of women in the workplace.
As many 6 million women of all ages are the victims of assault, rape, and other
personal violence every year, often perpetuated by their mates or someone they
know.
An estimated 30 percent of emergency room visits by women each year are the
results of injury from domestic violence.
The Clinton Administration has called for a comprehensive national approach to the
violence epidemic. It is clear that trying to stop violence solely through a tougher
criminal justice system will not work.
HHS is therefore currently working on preventing violence through its public
health approach which combines the efforts of scientific and health professional
groups and community based organizations to figure out what works best.
As a result an Intra-agency Working Group on Violence -- jointly led by HHS and
the Department of Justice is confronting violence through coordinated action
among many government agencies.
Through the Violence Against Women Office at the Department of Justice, the
Administration has taken several very important steps to heighten awareness
about the problem of violence against women, including domestic violence and
sexual assault.
The Adminstration declared October domestic violence month in order to
heighten awareness through a variety of local and national programs around the
country.
The Department of Justice also provides grants to states to fight domestic
violence through the community policing program. Presently, the Justice
Department is awarding over $46 million to help 336 different communities in
America.
In conjunction with the Crime Bill, the Clinton Administration enacted the Violence
Against Women Act.
The most comprehensive federal effort ever to fight violence against women and
to protect the rights of victims.
The law provided grants for local police and prosecutors to strengthen
enforcement efforts in sexual violence and domestic abuse cases, and increases
federal penalties for sex crimes.
The law also helps improve the responses by the police and the courts in domestic
violence crimes, enhance lighting in public places, and forces sex offenders to pay
restitution, increases funding to battered women's shelters.
The law also created a national domestic violence hotline to help ensure that
battered women and their families can find out how to get emergency help, find
shelter, or report abuse to authority. The hotline has already responded to over
20,000 calls.
The Brady Bill (A five-day waiting period and background check) also plays a part in
preventing domestic violence by keeping handguns out of the reach of individuals under
restraining orders for domestic threats. As a result 60,000 felons, fugitives, and stalkers
have not been able to buy handguns.
IN TERMS OF HEALTHY POLICY, WHAT ELSE IS THE PRESIDENT DOING?
Abortion
President Clinton is committed to promoting reproductive health services for women as
exemplified by his efforts in the following areas:
- during his first week in office, the President reversed the Gag Rule
- President Clinton signed the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act
- In this Administration, the annual budget for the Title X Family Planning
Program has increased from $172.4 million to $193.3 million. (This
program is the primary federal mechanism for providing reproductive
health services to low income women.)
Here you can included anything else that you wanted to say about abortion including the
recent legislation making the Hyde Amendment permanent and a part of Medicaid.
The Hyde Amendment obligates states to pay for abortions for poor women whose
pregnancies resulted from rape, incest, as well as for abortions of pregnancies which
endanger the life of the mother.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for 25 million Americans, 80 percent of
whom are women -- it is responsible for 1.5 million fractures annually. Medical experts
however agree that it is preventable. For this reason
In the last year, NIH has established the National Resource Center on Osteoporosis and
Related Bone Diseases specifically aimed at finding more information on this disease
and promoting education about it. The Center is a clearinghouse of information and
research.
Additionally, the Office of Research on Women's Health (a division of NIH) is currently
at work on the Women's Health Initiative --
A $625 million study being carried out in more than 40 centers across the country.
It is the largest prevention-oriented clinical trial for women in US history.
The goal of the WHI is to examine the major causes of death, disability, and
frailty from cardiovascular diseases, breast cancer, and osteoporosis in older
women of all races and socioeconomic backgrounds.
The WHI will provide essential scientific data to evaluate dietary pattern,
hormone replacement therapy, and other medical or behavioral intervention for
preventing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
The FDA has also made gains as demonstrated by:
The approval of food claims for foods high in calcium as part of nutrition labels
The approval of he first collagen based material for use in acute long bone
fracture -- this device is used for women suffering from osteoporosis
The approval of two new products that combine estrogen and progestin for
hormone replacement therapy -- these products add two more choices for women
interested in taking hormone replacement therapy.
In 1995, two additional drugs were approved for the treatment of postmenopausal
osteoporosis -- Fosamax & Miacalcin Nasal Spray -- expanding women's options
for medication.
Clinical Trials
What the WHI and the Clinton Administration's efforts at improving efforts to research
women's health demonstrate is the turn that this administration has taken toward
including women in tests where the results will directly affect their lives.
After years of neglecting women's health, this Administration finally including women in
the clinical trials and research that will lead to improved diagnosis, treatment, and
prevention of disease and disability in women of all ages.
Women and minorities are now included as subjects in government-supported
research and in the evaluation of drugs and medical devices.
Research is now addressing both gender & racial/ethnic differences in the causes
and treatment of diseases such as breast cancer, HIV/AIDS, and heart disease.
The President issued a mandate to NIH requiring the inclusion of women and
minorities in all trials potentially affecting them.
Similarly, he is strongly encouraging the FDA to recommend that pharmaceutical
companies included women and minorities.
Creating new positions to aid Women's Health
President Clinton has signed legislation establishing:
- the office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Women's Health at HHS
- the Office of Research on Women's Health at NIH
- Offices of women's health throughout HHS, CDC, and FDA
- For the first time, all of the HHS offices, agencies, and regions have established
offices to stimulate new initiatives on women's health issues
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Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center
New Drug Therapies for Treating Osteoporosis
Estrogen replacement therapy and injectable calcitonin are no longer the only pharmacologic
options approved for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. In 1995, two new drugs
were approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These include:
Fosamax® (alendronate sodium), which belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates,
interferes with bone resorption (breaking down of bone). Therapy with 10 mg/day has been
demonstrated to increase bone density and decrease vertebral fracture risk and mean height loss.
Miacalcin Nasal Spray (calcitonin salmon) is now available at a dose of 200 IU daily for
treatment of osteoporosis in women at least five years postmenopause who have low bone
density.
The FDA Endocrinologic and Metabolic Advisory Committee recommended approval of a slow-
release formulation of sodium fluoride taken with calcium. Final FDA action is pending.
Other medications are being explored for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis that may
soon expand the options available to patients. Among the drugs being investigated are selective
estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), parathyroid hormone, and vitamin D metabolites.
The materials contained in this packet include review articles and comparative studies that have
been conducted on some of these new therapies in recent years. They contain valuable
information that provides a complete overview of the progress that has been made in
osteoporosis research.
Post-it® Fax Note
7671
Date 6/20/96
# of
pages
&
To Amanda Biles
From CRRD
Co-/Dept.
Co.
Phone #
Phone #
Fax # 202456-7431
Fax #
3/96
1150 17th Street, NW, Suite 500. Washington. DC 20036-4603 Tel (202) 223-0344 Fax (202) 223-2237 TTY (202) 466-4315
The National Resource Center is operated by the National Osteoporosis Foundation in collaboration with The Paget Foundation and the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation,
and supported by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. National Institutes of Health
06-20-96 15:05 FROM:NATIONAL OSTEOPOROSIS
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Medications Used to Prevent and Treat Osteoporosis
Currently, estrogen, calcitonin, and alendronate are approved by the US Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Estrogen is also approved for
the prevention of osteoporosis. These medications affect the bone remodeling cycle and are classified
as anti-resorptive medications. Bone remodeling consists of two distinct stages: bone resorption and
bone formation. During resorption, special cells on the bone's surface dissolve bone tissue and create
small cavities. During formation, other cells fill the cavities with new bone tissue. Usually. bone
resorption and bone formation are linked so that they occur in close sequence and remain balanced.
When osteoporosis is present, the balance is altered and bone loss occurs. Anti-resorptive medications
slow or stop the bone resorbing portion of the bone-remodeling cycle but do not slow the bone-forming
portion of the cycle. As a result, new formation continues at a greater rate than bone resorption. and
bone density may increase.
Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT) and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) is the only medication approved for both the prevention
and treatment of osteoporosis. ERT has been proven to not only reduce bone loss but to also reduce
the number of hip and spinal fractures in postmenopausal women. ERT is administered most
commonly in the form of a pill or skin patch and is effective even when started after age 70. When
estrogen is taken alone, it can increase a woman's risk of developing cancer of the uterine lining
(endometrial cancer). To eliminate this risk, physicians prescribe the hormone progestin in
combination with estrogen (hormone replacement therapy or HRT) for those women who have an intact
uterus. ERT/HRT relieves menopause symptoms and has been shown to have beneficial effects on both
bone health and cardiovascular health. Side effects may include nausea, bloating, breast tenderness,
and high blood pressure. Some studies indicate a relationship between estrogen use and breast cancer,
while other studies indicate no relationship at all. The issue of a relationship between breast cancer and
estrogen use is still to be determined.
Calcitonin
Calcitonin is a naturally occurring hormone involved in calcium regulation and bone
metabolism. It slows bone loss, and anecdotal reports indicate that it relieves the pain associated with
bone fractures. Because calcitonin is a protein, it cannot be taken orally as it would be digested before
it could work. Calcitonin is available as an injection or nasal spray. While it does not affect other
organs or systems in the body, injectable calcitonin may cause an allergic reaction and unpleasant side
effects including flushing of the face and hands, urinary frequency, nausea, and a skin rash. The only
side effect reported with nasal calcitonin is a runny nose.
Alendronate
Alendronate is a newly approved medication from the class of drugs called bisphosphonates.
Research studies using alendronate to treat postmenopausal women with osteoporosis showed that
alendronate produced small increases in bone density in both the spine and hip. Side effects are
uncommon but may include abdominal or musculoskeletal pain, nausea, heartburn, or irritation of the
esophagus. Like all bisphosphonates, alendronate must be taken on an empty stomach. The
manufacturer strongly recommends taking this medication with a full glass of water first thing in the
morning and then waiting at least one-half hour, and preferably one hour, before the first food,
beverage, or medication of the day. To minimize side effects, the manufacturer urges people to remain
in an upright position for at least one half hour after taking this medication.
NATIONAL OSTEOPOROSIS FOUNDATION
Spring 1996
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Fast Facts on Osteoporosis
Definition
Collapsed vertebra may initially be felt or seen in
the form of severe back pain, loss of height, or
Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is a disease
spinal deformities such as stooped posture or
characterized by low bone mass and structural
dowager's hump.
deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone
fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures
Risk Factors
of the hip, spine, and wrist.
Certain people are more likely to develop osteo-
Prevalence
porosis than others. Factors that increase the
likelihood of developing osteoporosis are called
Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for 25
"risk factors." The following risk factors have been
million Americans, 80 percent of whom are women.
identified:
In the U.S. today, 7-8 million individuals already
have osteoporosis and 17 million more have low
Being female
bone mass, placing them at increased risk for this
Thin and/or small frame
disease.
Advanced age
A family history of osteoporosis
One out of every two women and one in eight
Early menopause
men have an osteoporosis-related fracture.
Abnormal absence of menstrual periods
By age 75, one third of all men will be affected
(amenorrhea)
by osteoporosis.
Anorexia nervosa or bulimia
While osteoporosis is often thought of as an older
A diet low in calcium
person's disease, it can strike at any age.
Use of certain medications. such as
Osteoporosis is responsible for 1.5 million frac-
corticosteroids and anti-convulsants
tures annually, including:
Low testosterone levels in men
more than 300,000 hip fractures
An inactive lifestyle
500,000 vertebral fractures
Cigarette smoking
200,000 wrist fractures
Excessive use of alcohol
more than 300,000 fractures at other sites
Caucasian or Asian, although African
Americans and Hispanic Americans are at
Cost
significant risk as well
The estimated national direct expenditures
Women can lose up to 20 percent of their bone
(hospitals and nursing homes) for osteoporosis and
mass in the 5-7 years following menopause, making
associated fractures was $10 billion ($27 million
them more susceptible to osteoporosis. However,
each day) and the cost is rising.
1.5 million American men are affected by
osteoporosis and one out of eight men age 50 and
Symptoms
older will develop fractures.
White women 60 years of age or older have at
Ostcoporosis is often called the "silent disease" be-
least twice the incidence of fractures as African-
cause bone loss occurs without symptoms. People
American women. However, one out of five
may not know that they have osteoporosis until their
African-American women are at risk of developing
bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump,
osteoporosis.
or fall causes a fracture or a vertebra to collapse.
Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases-National Resource Center
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Detection
A woman's risk of hip fracture is equal to her
combined risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer.
Specialized tests called bone density tests can
In 1988, about 250,000 Americans age 45 and
measure bone density in various sites of the body.
over were admitted to hospitals with hip fractures.
A bone density test can:
Osteoporosis was the underlying cause of many of
Detect osteoporosis before a fracture occurs
these injuries.
Predict your chances of fracturing in the future
Individuals suffering hip fractures have a 5 to 20
Determine your rate of bone loss and /or monitor
percent greater risk of dying within the first year
the effects of treatment if the test is conducted at
following that injury than others in their age group.
intervals of a year or more
Among those who were living independently
prior to a hip fracture, 15 to 25 percent are still in
Prevention
long-term care institutions a year after the injury.
Building strong bones, especially before the age of
Treatment and Care
35, can be the best defense against developing
osteoporosis, and a healthy lifestyle can be critically
Although there is no cure for osteoporosis, there are
important for keeping bones strong. So, to help
treatments available to help stop further bone loss
prevent osteoporosis:
and fractures:
Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium
Studies have shown that estrogen can prevent the
Exercise regularly, especially weight-bearing
loss of bone mass in postmenopausal women.
activities
Alendronate, a bisphosphonate, has recently been
Don't smoke and limit alcohol intake
approved by the Food and Drug Administration
Talk to your doctor if you have a family history of
for treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
osteoporosis or no longer have the protective
Calcitonin is a treatment that can be used by
benefit of estrogen due to natural or surgically
women and men for osteoporosis. This drug has
induced menopause.
been shown to slow bone breakdown and also can
reduce the pain associated with osteoporotic
Fractures
fractures.
Treatments under investigation include other
The most typical sites of fractures related to
bisphosphonates, sodium fluoride, vitamin D
osteoporosis are the hip, spine, wrist, and ribs,
although the disease can affect any bone in the
metabolites, and selective estrogen receptor
modulators.
body.
Forty percent of all women will have at least one
spinal fracture by the time they reach age 80.
Medical experts agree that osteoporosis is highly
Spinal osteoporosis is eight times more likely to
preventable. However, if the toll of osteoporosis is
afflict women than men.
10 be reduced, the commitment to osteoporosis
research must be significantly increased. It is
The rate of hip fracture is two to three times
reasonable to project that with increased research,
higher in women than men; however, the death rate
for men within one year after a hip fracture is 26
the future for definitive treatment and prevention of
osteoporosis is very bright.
percent higher than in women.
3/96
This information has been brought to you by:
Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases-National Resource Center
1150 17th Street, N.W., Suite 500, Washington, DC 20036-4603
Tel (800) 624-BONE or (202) 223-0344
Fax (202) 223-2237
TTY (202) 466-4315
Text used with permission of the
NATIONAL OSTEOPOROSIS FOUNDATION
ORBD-NRC is supported by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. National Institutes of Health
Fact Sheet I
Expanding Economic Opportunities for America's Families
"...We need a united front for treating women all over the world with dignity and respect and giving them
opportunities in the family and education and in the workplace."
President Clinton
Jackson, Wyoming, August 26, 1995
More than half of low-wage workers are mothers.
Delivered the Family and Medical Leave Act
The first bill President Clinton signed after taking office, the Family and Medical Leave Act, allows workers to take
up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for an infant, spouse, or ailing loved one without losing their jobs. Women and
men are no longer forced to choose between their families and jobs.
Expanded Earned Income Tax Credit Making Work Pay
The President has expanded the Earned Income Tax Credit as a first step toward ensuring that no child of full-
time working parents will have to live in poverty. The expansion gives a tax cut to more than 15 million working
families.
Committed to Increasing the Minimum Wage
The President has proposed increasing the minimum wage from $4.25 to $5.15 over two years, through two 45-
cent increases. For a full-time, year-round worker at minimum wage, a 90-cent increase would raise yearly income
by $1,800 as much as the average family spends on groceries over seven months. Two-thirds of minimum wage
workers are women.
Improved Access to Child Care
The Clinton Administration has launched initiatives to make child care more affordable and accessible and has
encouraged employers to address this need. The Administration has increased investments in child care and estab-
lished a Child Care Bureau to streamline federal child care programs. (The Child Care Information Center: 1-
800-616-2242.) The Clinton Administration has also initiated a Healthy Child Care Campaign to increase access
to preventative health services for children in child care and to ensure safe child care environments. In addition,
the Administration has increased child care availability for military families by providing additional funds for before
and after school programs and to expand family child care.
Strengthened Equal Opportunity for All
After an extensive review of laws and regulations, the President reaffirmed his Administration's support for affirma-
tive action as a tool to expand economic and educational opportunity. He believes that affirmative action must be
designed to sustain and support our ideals of personal responsibility and merit.
Strengthened Enforcement of Child Support
Manv families particularly those headed by women are forced into economic crisis and poverty when a non-
custodial parent fails to pay child support. From 1992 to 1994, there has been an increase in child support collec-
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH. 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
tions of more than 20 percent - from $8 billion to a record of nearly $10 billion. The President's child support
plan, a part of his welfare reform legislation, would double child support collections by the year 2000. By executive
order, federal agencies have been directed to cooperate with state efforts to identify and locate absent parents.
Promoting Work for Low-Income Families
The Clinton Administration has approved 49 welfare reform demonstrations in 35 states, more than the two previ-
ous administrations combined. The Clinton Administration waivers are based on the President's vision for welfare
reform: work responsibility and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of children and families.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300. FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Fact Sheet Il
Making Our Homes and Communities Safer
"If children aren't safe in their homes, if college women aren't safe in their dorms, if mothers can't
raise their children in safety, then the American Dream will never be real for them..."
President Clinton
March 21, 1995
In a typical year, more than 4.5 million American women 12 years or older
are victims of a threatened or attempted violent crime.
Initiated Programs to Combat Violence Against Women
The Violence Against Women Act, part of the President's crime bill, takes a comprehensive approach to combat-
ing violence against women. The law will help improve the responses by the police and the courts to domestic vio-
lence crimes, enhance lighting in public places, force SCX offenders to pay restitution, increase funding to battered
women's shelters and ensure that a "stay away" order obtained against an abuser will no longer stop at the state
line. In addition, the Administration has: created the Violence Against Women Office in the Department of
Justice to lead a national effort to combine tough new federal laws with help for states and localities; created a
national domestic violence hotline to help ensure that battered women and their families have access to help at all
times; and funded projects linking organizations working to combat domestic violence with aging agencies, an
effort aimed specifically at protecting older women against domestic violence.
Signed the Brady Bill and Assault Weapons Ban
The Brady law works to keep handguns out of the reach of criminals including individuals under restraining orders
for domestic threats. The law: A five-day waiting period and background check. The assault weapons ban outlaws
the 19 deadliest assault weapons and their copies.
Signed Three-Strikes-and-Out Law
This law puts criminals behind bars for good if they commit three violent crimes.
Supported Notifying Communities about Release of Sex Offenders
This new law requires appropriate community notification when serious Sex offenders have been released.
Introduced Operation Safe Home to Fight Crime in Public Housing
To combat crime in public and assisted housing, the Administration launched an aggressive interagency effort for
a more effective Operation Safe Home Program. In one year, more than 3,000 criminals were arrested and $1.5
million in drugs were seized.
Supported the Family Preservation and Support Act
The Clinton Administration won bipartisan support for this act-the first federal investment in child welfare pro-
tection in more than a decade. With federal help and support, states have been able to use these resources flexibly
and creatively to strengthen families and reduce child abuse.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH. 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
Fact Sheet III
Investing in Education and Training for Our Families
"Let's give our children a future. Let us take away their guns and give them books."
President Clinton
January 24, 1995
The typical college graduate earns 74 percent more than a worker with a high school degree.
Expanded Student Loans
The Student Loan Reform Act, which includes the President's Direct Lending Program, lowers interest rates for
students and allows for flexible income contingent repayment plans. The act also saves taxpayers billions of dollars.
Promoted National Service and Educational Opportunity
President Clinton created AmeriCorps SO young people can serve their communities-teaching. caring for the
sick, making the streets safer - while earning money toward their education. Already, 20,000 American women
and men serve in AmeriCorps.
Enhanced School-to-Work Opportunities
With bipartisan support, President Clinton signed into law the School-to-Work Opportunities Act, the most impor-
tant national program ever to provide apprenticeships for students who don't go on to college. School-to-Work
helps all young people -including the 70 percent who don't get four-year degrees - to get the education they
need to obtain good jobs.
Advanced Improved Standards for Education
This legislation sets world class education standards in areas of math and science and provides voluntary assistance
to states and communities to implement education reform. In addition, the President supported the
Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act which helps to improve basic and advanced
skills for low-income students.
Expanded Head Start
President Clinton has expanded Head Start services while improving the program's quality and making it more
responsive to the needs of local communities. The President's increase in funding for Head Start will allow 50,000
more children to take advantage of the program by the year 2002. The Administration has also launched an innov-
ative program to give infants and toddlers an Early Head Start.
Safe and Drug-Free Schools
This President-supported program expands security and violence prevention in schools across the nation by teach-
ing students the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse and teaching them alternatives to violence.
Expanding Lifelong Learning
The President has proposed a "C.I. Bill of Rights for Workers" to reform job training programs and put resources
and information directly into workers' hands. Lifelong Learning is critical for our workers to compete successfully
in the new global marketplace.
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE FOR WOMEN'S INITIATIVES AND OUTREACH, 708 JACKSON PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
202-456-7300, FAX 202-456-7311
JANUARY 1996
/
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 1996
It is time for us to recognize a simple but profound truth: by improving the lives of
American women, we are making a vital investment in America's future. By investing in
women, we enable them to reach their fullest potential as individuals and as members of our
society. When women thrive, their families thrive. When families thrive, communities flourish,
and our nation reaps the benefits.
We must value the contributions women make in every aspect of life: in the home, on the
job, in their communities, as mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, learners, caregivers, workers,
citizens, and leaders. Today, 58 million American women are in the work force, comprising half
of all workers. Almost every woman will work for pay sometime during her life. It isn't easy.
Women still make only 72 percent of what men make in comparable jobs. Each day, women
working outside the home must balance job responsibilities with family responsibilities. They
struggle to arrange and pay for quality child care. They must be effective on the job and still
find time to help their children with homework, to attend parent-teacher meetings, to take their
children to doctors' appointments and school events. We must pursue policies that help women to
be successful in the workplace and in the home.
My Administration is committed to helping women achieve that success, and the proof of our
commitment is found on the following pages. We have initiated strong, practical measures to
improve women's economic and educational opportunities, to provide quality health and child
care, to prevent violence on the streets and at home, and to make sure that women's voices are
heard at every level of our government. The unprecedented number of women I have appointed
to my Cabinet and to positions of leadership throughout the federal government reflects my belief
that women should be full partners in decisionmaking.
But we must do more. We have a historic opportunity and a solemn responsibility -- to
lead the world in our efforts to better the lives of women. At the United Nations Fourth World
Conference on Women, the First Lady joined tens of thousands of women from around the globe
in addressing issues vital to American women and families -- personal and economic security,
access to education, health care, jobs, and credit, and the chance for every boy and girl to live
up to his or her potential. My Administration is working hard to address these concerns.
I ask you to join me in our work to improve the lives of women and families in our nation
and around the world. The challenges are great, but the rewards are even greater for us all.
Rin Chirton