Uterine fibroids
Senator Kamala Harris Introduces Fibroid Bill to Improve Women’s Health
Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act corrects health inequities
Vice Presidential candidate and current U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA) has introduced the Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act. This legislation is designed to fund medical research and improve patient awareness about the common condition of uterine fibroids.
Uterine fibroids are benign noncancerous tumors affecting women. Fibroids, also called leiomyomas, are made of muscle cells that form into balls and grow in the uterus. Up to 80% of women will develop one or more uterine fibroids during their lifetime.¹
Scientists do not know exactly why some women get fibroids. Genetics and family history play a role, as having a family member with fibroids increases the risk. Fibroids are most common in African-American women affecting up to 50%.
Senator Harris discussed the importance of her bill, stating “Complications from uterine fibroids can lead to maternal mortality and morbidity, an ongoing crisis, especially for Black women. We have an opportunity to change that with the Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act.”
