HRES 305119th CongressIn Committee

Expressing support for the designation of the fourth Wednesday of February as "Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Awareness Day".

Introduced: Apr 8, 2025

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

This House resolution (H. Res. 305) expresses support for designating the fourth Wednesday of February as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Awareness Day. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a long-term heart condition where the heart muscle thickens, which can lead to serious health problems such as heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke, or, rarely, sudden cardiac death. The resolution provides background on how common HCM is, notes that many people with HCM are undiagnosed, and emphasizes the importance of screening, diagnosis, and management. It is a symbolic, nonbinding measure intended to raise public awareness and encourage Americans to seek appropriate medical care. The bill does not authorize new programs or funding.

Key Points

1The House expresses support for designating the fourth Wednesday of February as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Awareness Day.
2Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a chronic heart disease in which the heart muscle thickens and can cause serious complications; it is the most common inheritable heart disease.
3Prevalence estimates range from about 1 in 200 to 1 in 500 people, with an estimated 700,000 to 1,650,000 people in the U.S. affected, and a large portion undiagnosed.
4Symptoms often overlap with other heart and lung conditions (shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, palpitations, fainting), which can complicate diagnosis; early identification is aided by taking a thorough medical history and targeted testing.
5Diagnostic tests may include echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and genetic testing; treatment after diagnosis can include prescription medicines and surgical options. The resolution also emphasizes awareness to reduce undiagnosed and untreated HCM and urges Americans to seek appropriate care.
6The resolution is symbolic and does not create new law or funding.

Impact Areas

Primary group/area affected: Individuals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and the broader public who would benefit from increased awareness and understanding of the condition.Secondary group/area affected: Healthcare providers and the medical community, who may be encouraged to emphasize screening, diagnosis, and management of HCM; public health and patient advocacy organizations.Additional impacts: Could support heightened public awareness campaigns, education for families about inherited risk, and potential improvements in timely diagnosis and care-seeking behavior, though it does not authorize new programs or funding.

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