Supporting the designation of March 2025 as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Bill Number

H.Res. 180

Origin Chamber

House

Congress

119th Congress, Session 1

Policy Area

Health

Status

Introduced

Latest Action

2025-03-03: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

Last Updated

2026-04-07T20:26:08Z

AI-Generated Summary

Purpose

This House Resolution (H. Res. 180) expresses support for designating March 2025 as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It aims to raise public awareness about colorectal cancer prevention, early detection through screening, and the importance of education on symptoms and risk factors.

Key Provisions

• Background Facts ("Whereas" Clauses): The resolution outlines key statistics and facts, including:
• Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. for men and women combined.
• It is highly preventable, as screening can detect and remove polyps before they turn cancerous.
• Early detection improves treatment success, with a 90% five-year survival rate for localized cases, but only 39% of diagnoses occur at this stage.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that regular screenings for those aged 50 and older could prevent up to 60% of colorectal cancer deaths.
• About one in three adults over 50 are not up to date on screenings, and lifetime risks are 1 in 23 for men and 1 in 26 for women.
• By 2030, it is projected to become the leading cancer killer for people aged 20-49.
• Annual awareness campaigns in March focus on prevention, screening, and symptoms.
• Resolution Actions: The House of Representatives:
• Supports the goals and ideals of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
• Encourages U.S. citizens to participate in awareness and educational activities during the month.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. It serves as a symbolic expression of congressional support rather than enacting enforceable policy.

Potential Impacts

• On Citizens: May increase public knowledge and encourage more people, especially those over 50, to get screened, potentially reducing colorectal cancer incidence and deaths through heightened awareness.
• On Government Agencies: Could indirectly support efforts by agencies like the CDC in promoting public health campaigns, but imposes no new requirements or funding.
• On International Relations: No impacts, as the resolution is focused solely on domestic U.S. health awareness.

Main Stakeholders Affected

• Individuals at Risk: Primarily adults aged 50 and older, as well as younger adults (ages 20-49) facing rising risks, who may benefit from increased screening and education.
• Healthcare Providers and Organizations: Doctors, clinics, and groups like the CDC or cancer advocacy nonprofits, which could see boosted participation in prevention programs.
• General Public: All U.S. citizens, encouraged to engage in awareness activities to promote broader health literacy.
• Bipartisan Sponsors: Introduced by Representatives from both parties, highlighting cross-party interest in public health.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

• Legal/Constitutional: As a simple resolution, it has no legal force and does not require presidential approval or affect constitutional rights. It aligns with Congress's role in expressing policy preferences without binding action.
• Political: Demonstrates bipartisan cooperation on a non-controversial public health issue, potentially fostering goodwill and supporting ongoing awareness efforts without partisan debate. It was referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for review.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Rep. Green, Mark E. [R-TN-7]

Cosponsors (6)

Rep. Wilson, Frederica S. [D-FL-24], Rep. Sewell, Terri A. [D-AL-7], Rep. Stevens, Haley M. [D-MI-11], Rep. Mullin, Kevin [D-CA-15], Rep. Williams, Nikema [D-GA-5], Rep. Landsman, Greg [D-OH-1]

Recent Actions

• 2025-03-03: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
• 2025-03-03: Submitted in House

Bill Versions

• Supporting the designation of March 2025 as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. — issued 2025-03-03 — PDF (2 pages)