Us Congress House Bill HR1124

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/9/24
• Refer: 4/9/24

Caption

Expressing support for the designation of the last Tuesday of April each year as "APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease (AMKD) Awareness Day".

Impact

The bill aims to highlight significant health disparities faced by Black individuals, who represent a disproportionately high percentage of those suffering from kidney failure. Approximately 13% of Black Americans are estimated to carry variants of the APOL1 gene, increasing their risk for APOL1-mediated kidney disease. By moving forward with this awareness campaign, the legislation emphasizes the need for increased education and early intervention strategies, which could mitigate the burdens associated with kidney disease. Furthermore, it empowers individuals to seek genetic testing and make informed health decisions.

Summary

House Resolution 1124 expresses support for the designation of the last Tuesday in April as 'APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease (AMKD) Awareness Day'. This resolution aims to raise awareness about APOL1-mediated kidney disease, a condition that significantly impacts the Black population in the United States due to genetic predispositions. By establishing a specific day for awareness, the resolution seeks to encourage education around kidney health, particularly among those with ancestry from Western and Central Africa who are more likely to carry variants of the APOL1 gene, putting them at risk for severe kidney issues.

Contention

While the bill is designed to enhance awareness and reduce health disparities related to kidney disease, it may face contention regarding funding and resource allocation for public education and genetic testing initiatives. Critics may argue about the effectiveness of awareness days without accompanying actions to address the systemic healthcare inequities prevalent in underserved communities. Thus, it sets a foundation for potential discussions on future legislative efforts aimed at directly improving healthcare services for populations at risk.