North Texas News

Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX) and Congressman Danny Davis (D-IL) have introduced a resolution to designate September as Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month.

“Sickle cell disease has taken a toll on our nation for far too long,” said Chairman Burgess. “This bill will increase awareness about sickle cell disease and encourage further research into early detection and treatments. I am grateful Congressman Davis joined me in our effort to bring greater attention to this condition. Awareness of this disease will lead to the improvement of preventions, cures, and treatments for the American patient.”

“Better treatments and outcomes for patients affected by sickle cell disease do not happen by chance. It will take dedication and sacrifice to champion advancements for more effective and accessible forms of care. As a co-chair of the Congressional Sickle Cell Disease Caucus, I greatly appreciate Dr. Burgess joining me in this call to transform healthcare research and therapies to save lives in a bipartisan effort,” said Congressman Danny K. Davis.

Congressman Burgess also spoke on the House floor in support of his bill, the Sickle Cell Disease and Other Heritable Blood Disorders Research, Surveillance, Prevention, and Treatment Act, which passed yesterday. This legislation reauthorizes the Health Resources and Services Administration's (HRSA) Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program to increase access to essential care, treatment, and research for Americans living with sickle cell disease.

Mr. Speaker: "I rise today in support of my bill H.R. 3884 the Sickle Cell Disease and Other Heritable Blood Disorders Research, Surveillance, Prevention, and Treatment Act," said Burgess during his remarks on the House floor.

"Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited blood disorder that causes an individual’s red blood cells to contort into a 'C' or sickle shape, reducing its ability to carry oxygen throughout the body," he explained.

Burgess emphasized that adults with sickle cell disease have significantly shorter lifespans compared to those without it: "An adult living with SCD has an average lifespan of 20 to 30 years shorter than an adult who does not have the disease."

Drawing from his experience as a physician for 30 years: "Proper treatment requires early knowledge, intervention, and care coordination," he stated.

He continued: "It is important that we have the resources to encourage more research and data to better inform how to evaluate treatment plans while improving quality of life for patients and families affected by this disease."

The legislation aims at improving both physician education and patient care practices: "By having access to these programs... providing more time to terminate the disease from having a horrific effect on the wellbeing of the patient."

Burgess concluded by thanking Representatives Davis and Carter for their support: "I thank my fellow members... as we improve the lives of those living with sickle cell disease by providing better access to care in our communities."

He also announced another forthcoming bill recognizing September as National Sickle Cell Awareness Month: "...so communities around the nation can be educated on this disease..."