Illinois House Bill HR0869

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/31/24
• Refer: 11/12/24

Caption

METASTATIC BREAST CANCER DAY

Impact

If passed, HR0869 will catalyze awareness initiatives surrounding metastatic breast cancer and contribute to funding efforts focused on research for this specific stage. By declaring an official day dedicated to MBC, the resolution aims to elevate public discourse and promote educational outreach regarding the disease's implications and personal stories from affected individuals. This action could influence local policies and healthcare programs by encouraging communities to embrace educational campaigns and fundraisers centered on MBC during the designated month. Additionally, it could facilitate collaborations between state agencies and health organizations to address the significant gaps in research funding for metastatic cases.

Summary

House Resolution 0869 seeks to declare October 13, 2024, as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Illinois. The resolution highlights the critical need for increased awareness and research funding for metastatic breast cancer (MBC), a stage of breast cancer that is often terminal and affects a significant number of individuals across diverse demographics. MBC is particularly lethal, with 98% of breast cancer deaths attributed to this stage, and the bill recognizes the importance of the METAvivor organization in advocating for research funding and support for patients. The resolution aligns with the national observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.

Contention

While the resolution primarily focuses on raising awareness, it also highlights the disparities in breast cancer research funding, particularly the stark difference between early-stage and metastatic treatments. Advocates from METAvivor push for a goal of transforming the percentage of breast cancer research directed towards metastatic conditions from under 5% to at least 30%. Critics may voice concerns about the adequacy of measures taken by the state to improve outcomes for MBC patients, questioning whether such awareness resolutions effectively translate into tangible health policy improvements or funding increases. However, the consensus among supporters emphasizes the necessity for heightened attention and action to support those affected by MBC.