Raising awareness of esophageal cancer by expressing support for the designation of April 2025 as "Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month".
This is a House Resolution (H. Res. 324) introduced in the 119th Congress that expresses support for designating April 2025 as “Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month.” The resolution presents statistics about esophageal cancer (rapidly increasing incidence, high mortality, and late detection) and explains how GERD and Barrett’s esophagus can be precursors to cancer. It urges public education, continued research funding, and early detection efforts, encouraging individuals to learn about risk factors and symptoms and to discuss screening with health care providers. It also honors those affected by esophageal cancer and their families. As a resolution, it is a symbolic statement of support and does not itself create a new law or authorize new spending. It could, however, influence public health messaging and policy priorities by encouraging government agencies, states, nonprofits, and the media to promote awareness and prevention efforts.
Key Points
- 1Expresses support for designating April 2025 as “Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month.”
- 2Highlights key statistics about esophageal cancer, including rising incidence, high mortality, and late-stage diagnosis as major concerns.
- 3Explains risk factors and precursors (GERD and Barrett’s esophagus) and notes that early detection improves survival.
- 4Calls for public education, ongoing research funding, and the development of early detection methods and screening strategies.
- 5Encourages individuals to learn about risk factors and symptoms and to discuss potential screening with health care providers; honors survivors, caregivers, and researchers.