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Today, Congressman David Scott, along with Congresswomen Robin Kelly (IL-2), Marcia Fudge (OH-11), Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-At Large), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large) introduced H.Res. 488, designating July 2019 as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month. By highlighting the importance of and increasing awareness about uterine fibroids, this resolution also contributes to efforts to reduce staggering maternal mortality rates across the United States.

“Thousands of women in Georgia and over 11 million across the United States are affected by uterine fibroids, which represent one of the most prevalent reproductive health problems in our nation,” Congressman Scott said. “In fact, by age 50, 70% of White women and 80% of Black women will be diagnosed with uterine fibroids.  The White Dress Project, CARE About Fibroids, and other advocacy organizations have worked tirelessly to raise awareness about this condition and support women seeking treatment. Although this issue is directly linked to the maternal mortality crisis, research and awareness programs on uterine fibroids have not received the attention or funding they deserve. I am promoting July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month this year to support efforts to educate more women about their treatment options.”

Background

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that may increase a woman’s risk of experiencing complications during pregnancy. H.Res. 488 encourages the United States to observe Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month with appropriate awareness and educational activities.

Leading organizations also supporting H.Res. 488 include the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Black Women’s Health Imperative, CARE About Fibroids, The White Dress Project, and RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association.

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