May 20th 2024.
Congresswoman Shontel Brown has made a personal and passionate effort towards advocating for better gynecological health by introducing the U-FIGHT Act. This legislation, also known as the Uterine Fibroid Intervention and Gynecological Health and Treatment Act, was announced by the Warrensville Heights Democrat on May 16th. During her announcement, Brown bravely shared her own experience with uterine fibroids, describing it as an unwanted guest that takes over your body every month for years.
According to Cleveland.com, Brown shed light on the painful and debilitating effects of uterine fibroids. She spoke about how the condition caused her to have painful and messy menstrual cycles, taking a toll on her mental health and ultimately leading her to have a hysterectomy. Her honest testimony highlighted the urgency and necessity of the proposed legislation.
The main goal of the U-FIGHT Act is to empower the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide grants for early detection and intervention programs for uterine fibroids, as well as educational awareness programs and research efforts. These grants would also address issues such as pain management and Asherman's syndrome, a condition that can occur after uterine surgery.
Brown emphasized the significant impact that uterine fibroids can have, especially on Black women. She stated, "Too many women delay seeking medical care or are denied proper treatment because they are not aware that their symptoms are not normal." This legislation has received endorsements from a diverse range of organizations, including The White Dress Project, The Fibroid Foundation, Black Health Matters, and major healthcare centers like the University Hospitals, Cleveland Clinic, and MetroHealth.
MetroHealth President and CEO, Airica Steed, expressed their support for the U-FIGHT Act, stating, "We are excited to work with Congresswoman Brown to advance this legislation, which will expand access to early screenings and detection methods for uterine fibroids. This debilitating condition affects millions of women, particularly women of color, and together we can create a healthier community for every woman."
Although the U-FIGHT Act currently has 50 co-sponsors in the House of Representatives, all Democrats, Brown is determined to gain bipartisan support and introduce companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. This effort is crucial as studies have shown that 80% of Black women will develop uterine fibroids at some point in their lives. By passing this legislation, we can make a positive impact on the health and well-being of countless women across the nation.
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