Georgia House Bill HR714

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/23
• Enrolled: 3/29/23
• Passed: 3/29/23

Caption

Georgia Cancer Control Consortium; part of Ga. Dept. of Public Health, HPV Cancer Free GA, Cancer Pathways, the Northwest Ga. Regional Cancer Coalition, & the Susan Jolley Awareness Program; contributions to cervical cancer education & awareness; commend

Impact

The resolution sheds light on the alarming statistics surrounding cervical cancer in Georgia, citing that over 14,480 American women are diagnosed annually, with 490 cases occurring in Georgia. Furthermore, it points out that a significant portion of the population lacks access to essential screenings that can lead to early detection and treatment of cervical cancer. A critical element discussed in the resolution is the necessity for increased vaccination rates against HPV, with less than one in four adolescents in Georgia receiving the recommended doses of the HPV vaccine despite it being highly effective in preventing cervical cancer.

Summary

House Resolution 714 commends the Georgia Cancer Control Consortium and affiliated organizations for their significant contributions to cervical cancer education and awareness within the state of Georgia. The resolution highlights January as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about this preventable disease and the efforts of various coalition members in promoting screenings and vaccinations for HPV. These groups work collaboratively to address the public health challenge posed by cervical cancer, particularly among underrepresented populations in Georgia, including Black and Hispanic women who are disproportionately affected by HPV-related cervical cancer.

Contention

While the resolution itself serves as a commendation and does not present legislative changes, it opens discussions about the gaps in healthcare access and the urgent need for community efforts to elevate awareness and educational initiatives. The contention mainly revolves around the actions needed to improve healthcare access and education on cervical cancer prevention, particularly in underserved communities. This indicates an ongoing concern regarding healthcare equity and the effectiveness of current public health campaigns in addressing cervical cancer in high-risk demographics.