Bill > HCR3

This joint resolution designates September as "Sickle Cell Awareness Month" in Missouri while providing comprehensive context about sickle cell disease. The resolution explains that sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder affecting red blood cells, causing them to become hard, sticky, and sickle-shaped, which can lead to serious health complications like organ damage and stroke. It highlights that approximately 100,000 Americans have the full disease, and 2.5 million Americans (including one in 12 African Americans and one in 100 Latinos) have the sickle cell trait. The resolution emphasizes the importance of genetic awareness, particularly for family planning, and notes Missouri's longstanding newborn screening program that has helped reduce child mortality from the disease. The resolution also acknowledges the challenges in developing treatments, including low clinical trial participation in diverse communities, and calls on all Missouri citizens to participate in awareness activities. By passing this resolution, the Missouri General Assembly aims to increase public understanding of sickle cell disease, promote genetic screening, and support those affected by this genetic condition.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HCR3&year=2025&code=R