Tennessee House Bill HJR1291

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/2/24
• Engrossed: 4/9/24
• Enrolled: 4/16/24
• Passed: 4/22/24

Caption

A RESOLUTION to honor NEC Awareness Month.

Impact

The resolution recognizes the significant healthcare burden posed by NEC, which incurs approximately $5 billion annually in hospitalization costs in the United States. This emphasizes the need for ongoing research and education regarding NEC in order to improve medical practices and outcomes for affected infants. By honoring NEC Awareness Month, the resolution aims to mobilize public health efforts to address this critical issue in neonatal care.

Summary

HJR1291 is a resolution to honor Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Awareness Month, which is observed in May. NEC is a severe intestinal condition predominantly affecting premature infants, leading to high mortality and long-term health consequences for survivors. The resolution highlights the urgency of raising awareness about NEC, particularly given its status as a leading cause of death among hospitalized premature infants. It emphasizes the importance of early detection and effective care strategies to manage the risks associated with NEC.

Contention

Notably, the resolution underlines healthcare disparities, indicating that Black infants are disproportionately affected by NEC compared to their White counterparts. This element introduces a social justice aspect to the discussion surrounding NEC, highlighting the importance of equitable healthcare access and treatment for all infants regardless of race. The inclusion of the NEC Society, a leading nonprofit organization advocating for research and support for NEC, underscores the collaborative effort needed to combat this devastating condition.