Hepatitis Awareness Month and Hepatitis Testing Day.
The resolution highlights that there are approximately 750,000 individuals in California living with chronic hepatitis C and around 350,000 with hepatitis B, many of whom are unaware of their infections. By establishing designated days for awareness and testing, ACR 84 aims to encourage more individuals to seek screenings and treatment, potentially decreasing the public health burden caused by these diseases. Furthermore, it draws attention to existing guidelines urging testing for certain populations, particularly baby boomers and pregnant women.
ACR 84, authored by Gipson, proclaims May 2017 as Hepatitis Awareness Month and May 19, 2017, as Hepatitis Testing Day in California. The resolution seeks to raise public awareness about the significant health risks associated with hepatitis B and C, two diseases that lead to high rates of liver disease and cancer. It emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment to reduce complications associated with these infections, which remain largely underdiagnosed among the general public.
The sentiment surrounding ACR 84 is generally positive, with broad support for public health initiatives aimed at reducing the prevalence of hepatitis. Supporters of the resolution believe that by fostering awareness and increased testing, it will ultimately save lives and improve health outcomes for affected individuals. Legislative discussions reflect a recognition of hepatitis as a critical public health issue that requires attention and action from both healthcare providers and the community.
While there are no significant points of contention directly raised in the discussion regarding ACR 84, the general complexity of addressing public health issues such as hepatitis B and C in California may involve challenges related to funding for screening programs, public education efforts, and access to treatment. The resolution sets a stage for further legislative discussions about how best to implement effective public health strategies to combat these diseases.