Supporting the designation of September 2023 as "National Cholesterol Education Month", and September 30, 2023, as LDL-C Awareness Day.
If adopted, HR709 aims to encourage individuals to be proactive in knowing their LDL-C levels and underscores the importance of proper screening and treatment. The resolution highlights significant disparities in cardiovascular health, particularly among racial and ethnic minorities, indicating that without awareness and intervention, these disparities may persist or worsen, especially as projected rates of cardiovascular disease are expected to climb significantly by 2060. Furthermore, the resolution seeks to educate the public about lifestyle factors that contribute to elevated cholesterol levels as part of a broader strategy to combat heart disease.
HR709 is a resolution that supports the designation of September 2023 as 'National Cholesterol Education Month' and September 30, 2023, as 'LDL-C Awareness Day.' This initiative is driven by significant health concerns regarding cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States, particularly affecting underserved populations. The bill emphasizes the need for increased awareness and management of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), a critical risk factor for cardiovascular illness.
While HR709 is largely a supportive resolution, it could draw attention to systemic health inequities and the gaps in care that exist in various communities. Notably, the bill points out that certain populations, especially African Americans and Hispanics, face elevated risks for cardiovascular disease and often do not receive appropriate healthcare interventions, such as LDL-C testing. By highlighting these disparities, the bill may propel discussions on health policy reforms aimed at enhancing healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized groups, which could be met with both support and opposition based on differing perspectives on health equity and access.