This resolution supports the designation of July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month to highlight the commonality, disproportionate impact, and need for increased research and treatment options for uterine fibroids.
David Scott
Representative
GA-13
This resolution supports the designation of July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month to highlight the significant health impact of these common growths on women. It recognizes the disproportionate burden of fibroids on Black and Hispanic women and calls for increased research and improved treatment options. The bill encourages the President to issue a proclamation supporting national awareness activities throughout July.
Congress Backs July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month, Citing $34 Billion Annual Economic Cost
This resolution formally supports designating July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month. While it’s not changing any laws or cutting checks for new programs, it’s Congress officially recognizing a major women’s health issue that costs the U.S. economy billions every year—specifically, between $5.9 billion and $34.4 billion annually when you count treatment and lost productivity.
The Real-World Impact of Fibroids
Uterine fibroids—non-cancerous growths in the uterus—are incredibly common, affecting up to 80% of women by age 50. The resolution highlights that for the women who experience symptoms, we’re talking about serious issues: chronic pelvic pain, heavy bleeding that can lead to anemia, and even infertility. Think about trying to hold down a demanding job or manage a household when you’re constantly dealing with debilitating pain or exhaustion from blood loss. This isn’t a minor inconvenience; it’s a condition that severely impacts a woman’s ability to participate fully in her work and life, often leading to missed workdays or disability leave.
Why This Matters for Equity
The resolution doesn't shy away from the fact that this is a health equity issue. Black women are three times more likely to develop fibroids than Caucasian women, and Hispanic women are twice as likely. More concerning, these groups often experience more severe symptoms, which translates to a greater need for invasive treatment. The text notes that over 200,000 hysterectomies are performed annually just because of fibroids, a major surgery that carries its own risks and recovery time. By calling out these disparities, the resolution aims to direct attention toward better research and care options for the communities hit hardest.
What the Resolution Actually Does
Since this is a resolution, not a bill, it doesn't create mandates or funding streams. Instead, it serves as a powerful statement of support for the goals of Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month. It encourages the President to issue a formal proclamation, essentially asking the entire country to pay attention through educational activities and awareness campaigns. The goal is to push for more research into causes, prevention, and less invasive treatments than a hysterectomy. For the average person, this means better awareness campaigns in July might help women recognize symptoms earlier, potentially leading to better outcomes and less time spent struggling with a debilitating condition.