Bill > AJR97

Introduced Session

This resolution designates July of each year as "Uterine Fibroid Awareness Month" in New Jersey to improve public awareness and understanding of this underdiagnosed health disease, encourage support for those diagnosed with uterine fibroids, and to promote more initiatives at the State, local, and national levels to enhance research into effective diagnosis and treatments of this disease. Uterine fibroids are a common type of noncancerous tumor that can grow in and on uteruses. It is estimated that 20 percent to 50 percent of women of reproductive age currently have uterine fibroids, and up to 77 percent of women will develop fibroids before menopause. Most women will experience uterine fibroids by the age of 50, yet few data exists describing the overall patient experience with fibroids. Not all fibroids cause symptoms, but when they do, symptoms can include heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia, fatigue, back pain, frequent urination, bowel dysfunction, pain during sex, infertility, and pregnancy complications and loss. The pain, discomfort, stress, and other physical and emotional symptoms of living with fibroids may significantly interfere with quality of life for the diagnosed individual, compromising their ability to function normally or work or care for their family, and may lead to more severe health and wellness issues. Many people with fibroids are likely undiagnosed. Patients wait on average 3.6 years before seeking treatment, and over 40 percent of patients see two or more health care providers prior to receiving a diagnosis, underscoring the need for improved awareness and education. People of color are more likely to develop uterine fibroids. According to the Evidence Report Summary on the Management of Uterine Fibroids, as compiled by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality of the Department of Health and Human Services, there is a remarkable lack of high-quality evidence supporting the effectiveness of most interventions for symptomatic fibroids. Most medical options for managing fibroid symptoms regulate or suppress menstruation and prevent pregnancy. There is a need for minimally invasive, fertility-friendly therapies, as well as biomarkers, imaging assessments, or risk-based algorithms that can help predict patient response to therapy. Despite the prevalence of uterine fibroids among women nationwide, as shown by national data, state-level research on uterine fibroids is limited, resulting in a lack of specific data pertaining to uterine fibroids for women in New Jersey. Recognizing July of each year as "Uterine Fibroid Awareness Month" in New Jersey will help increase awareness of uterine fibroids, its impact on the residents of this State, and promote further research into effective diagnostic mechanisms and treatments.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Linda Carter (D)*,  Annette Quijano (D)*,  Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D)*,  Shanique Speight (D), 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee (on 01/13/2026)

Official Document