Legislation sponsored by Senator Declan O’Scanlon that establishes a public awareness campaign to promote women’s reproductive health was advanced by the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.
Sen. O’Scanlon’s bill that establishes a public awareness campaign to promote women’s reproductive health was advanced by the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee. (©iStock)
“Millions of women face health challenges that can impact fertility and even lead to more serious health complications,” said O’Scanlon (R-13). “When more women have access to information about their health and preventative care, they’re more likely to consult with a medical professional. This bill launches a public awareness campaign to help educate millions of women in New Jersey about how they can avoid potentially life-threatening issues.”
The United States Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health and the Mayo Clinic found that disorders like endometriosis, which is a painful reproductive issue, affects more than 11 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 44, and often correlates to higher rates of ovarian cancer.
Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that more than five million women suffer from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is one of the leading causes of infertility in women. PCOS can also lead to other serious health problems such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and even stroke.
Senator O’Scanlon’s bill, S-3393, requires the New Jersey Department of Health to post educational information about the negative effects of menstrual disorders such as endometriosis, PCOS, and menstrual toxic shock syndrome on their website as part of a new public awareness campaign.
“It is our duty as legislators to ensure that women of all ages have access to life saving resources and information,” O’Scanlon added. “This public awareness campaign should encourage women to be proactive about their menstrual and reproductive well-being to prevent more serious health related challenges in the future.”