Supporting the goals and ideals of "Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) Awareness Day".
Impact
The resolution supports educational initiatives around CJD, which could positively impact community understanding and medical research related to the disease. This emphasis on awareness may drive legislative and funding interest towards better research, detection, and care for those affected by CJD. Additionally, the proposed awareness day might help unify efforts across healthcare and advocacy organizations to confront the challenges presented by this rare disorder.
Summary
House Resolution 821 (HR821) advocates for the establishment of November 12 as 'Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) Awareness Day.' The resolution recognizes CJD as a rare but fatal brain disorder among a category known as prion diseases, with an incidence rate of 1 to 2 cases per million annually in the United States. It highlights the nature of the disease, which typically leads to death within months after symptoms onset, emphasizing the need for comprehensive prion disease surveillance and improved detection methods. The bill aims to raise awareness about CJD and its implications for patients and their families.
Contention
As a resolution, HR821 does not impose new laws or changes to existing statutes but signifies a commitment to raising awareness for CJD. An area of contention could arise around the prioritization of resources towards CJD research versus other health issues, given the limited resources available in the healthcare and research sectors. The recognition of a dedicated awareness day may lead to discussions on how effectively to allocate funding and research efforts toward more prevalent diseases versus rare conditions like CJD.
Expressing support for the recognition of October 26, 2023, as "Intersex Awareness Day", and supporting the goals and ideals of Intersex Awareness Day.