The resolution S. RES. 138 from the 119th Congress is dedicated to highlighting the importance of "Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Awareness Month." It underscores the need for public awareness about deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), which are potentially life-threatening conditions resulting from blood clots. While the resolution itself does not propose any new laws, it emphasizes the necessity of public education to reduce the prevalence and impact of these conditions.

General Summary

The resolution serves as a formal expression of support by the Senate for the goals of the awareness month. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, commonly in the legs, but it can also happen in the arm, abdomen, and brain. A pulmonary embolism, a severe complication of DVT, happens when a clot travels through the bloodstream and becomes lodged in the lungs. Both conditions are significant medical concerns affecting up to 900,000 individuals annually in the United States and potentially leading to 60,000 to 100,000 preventable deaths per year.

Summary of Significant Issues

While the resolution does not propose legislative action, its focus is on increasing awareness. By officially recognizing March as DVT and PE Awareness Month, the resolution aims to bring attention to these medical conditions that are serious yet often preventable. The resolution highlights risk factors like cancer, pregnancy, immobility, surgery, older age, and genetic predispositions, all of which elevate the likelihood of developing DVT and PE.

Impact on the Public

On a broad scale, this resolution could positively affect public health by encouraging educational campaigns and preventative measures, thus potentially reducing the incidence and death rates associated with DVT and PE. The resolution sets a framework for healthcare providers and public health officials to prioritize these conditions in their outreach, ultimately fostering a more informed and proactive population.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Among specific stakeholders, healthcare providers, hospitals, and public health organizations stand to benefit from increased public awareness. Recognizing these conditions formally could lead to more resources being allocated for research, education, and preventive outreach. Cancer patients, pregnant individuals, and those with a family history of clotting disorders are among those who could experience direct benefits from increased awareness and preventive screenings.

The economic impact is also a consideration, as addressing DVT and PE through awareness and prevention could mitigate healthcare costs associated with these conditions, which are estimated to contribute up to $10 billion in medical costs annually. By reducing the incidence and resulting complications of DVT and PE, both individual healthcare expenses and insurance burdens could potentially be minimized.

In conclusion, S. RES. 138 aims to illuminate an important public health issue with the potential to save lives and reduce healthcare costs through heightened awareness and education. While the resolution itself contains no direct legislative action, its implications for public health are significant and far-reaching.