Committee backs resolution to boost fibroid awareness, screening and support

The PSHHS committee voted to send CR 30 to the full council after a series of personal testimonies and staff presentations highlighting gaps in awareness and care for uterine fibroids.

David Noto, the committee’s legislative budget and policy analyst, described CR 30’s goals: encourage the health department to raise awareness about fibroids, publish an annual report on reproductive health disparities and provide resources for screening, patient navigation and treatment options. Noto noted federal proposals such as the UFIGHT-related bills and a longstanding federal research measure that, if enacted, would allocate significant NIH funding to fibroid studies.

Vice Chair Blige told the committee the issue is personal: she described a surgery and a severe transfusion and urged colleagues to support policies that reduce stigma and improve early diagnosis. Community witnesses and clinicians reinforced that message. Nicole McCrimmon, communications director for the Fibroid Foundation and a Prince George’s County resident, said, “This county is powered by Black women who lead households, businesses, schools, churches, and communities,” and urged the council to use community partners to reach residents earlier. Dr. Claudine Wariozer, a family medicine resident, called fibroids a public-health and health-equity issue and urged the committee to promote earlier diagnosis and access to care.

Office of Law found the resolution legally sufficient; the Office of the County Executive and the health department expressed support while noting data-collection and partnership needs for any screening or funding efforts. Vice Chair Blige moved the resolution favorable; the committee voted 4–0 to report CR 30 to the full council.