Recognizes the seriousness of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and supports the designation of September as "PCOS Awareness Month" to increase awareness, improve treatment, and find a cure for the condition.
David Scott
Representative
GA-13
This bill recognizes the seriousness of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder affecting millions of women, and supports the designation of September as "PCOS Awareness Month" to promote education, research, and improved care for those affected. It aims to address the underdiagnosis of PCOS and its links to other serious health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, while advocating for increased awareness and support for women and girls with PCOS.
Bill Declares September as PCOS Awareness Month, Aims to Boost Research and Improve Care
This bill officially recognizes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) as a serious health issue and designates September as "PCOS Awareness Month." It's a move to shine a spotlight on a condition that affects an estimated 5 to 10 million women in the US, from puberty onward.
PCOS: More Than Just a Reproductive Issue
The bill highlights that PCOS is way more than irregular periods and fertility struggles. It's linked to a bunch of serious health risks, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even endometrial cancer. The text points out that women with PCOS have a greater than 50 percent chance of developing type 2 diabetes or prediabetes before they even hit 40, and their risk for endometrial cancer is three times higher than those without the condition. It even mentions that PCOS can mess with your mental health, increasing the risk of psychosocial disorders and suicide.
Getting Real About the Impact
Imagine a young woman, just starting her career, dealing with acne, weight gain, and irregular periods. She might not even know she has PCOS – the bill says about half of those with the condition are undiagnosed. This delay in diagnosis can have serious consequences. That same woman, if undiagnosed and untreated, could face a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer later in life. And it's not just physical health – the increased risk of depression and anxiety can impact her work, relationships, and overall well-being. This is true for women in all walks of life, whether you're a teacher, a construction worker, or a business owner.
Pushing for Progress
The bill calls for increased awareness, better education for healthcare providers, and, importantly, more research. It's pushing for improved diagnosis, treatment, and management of PCOS. It also urges medical researchers and healthcare professionals to step up their game in understanding and assisting those with PCOS. The ultimate goal? To improve the quality of life for women and girls living with this condition and to find a cure. The resolution urges states, territories, and localities to support PCOS Awareness Month.
The Bottom Line
This resolution isn't just symbolic. It's a call to action. By recognizing PCOS and its wide-ranging impacts, the bill aims to bring this often-overlooked condition into the national conversation, pushing for better care and, hopefully, a brighter future for millions of women. It also acknowledges the significant economic burden of PCOS, estimated at over $4.3 billion annually back in 2004, and that figure only covers women during their reproductive years.