Establishes the statewide fibroid study program

• Democratic4

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Cordell Cleare says this is needed

Uterine fibroids are among the most common non-cancerous tumors affect- ing women of reproductive age and remain a leading cause of hysterectomy in the United States. Despite their prevalence, fibroids remain signif- icantly under-researched relative to the scale of the public health burden they represent. Fibroids disproportionately affect Black women and other women of color. Research shows that up to 80 percent of Black women and nearly 70 percent of all women will develop fibroids by the age of 50. Black women are also more likely to develop fibroids at youn- ger ages, experience larger and more numerous tumors, and suffer more severe symptoms, including chronic pain, excessive bleeding, infertili- ty, and pregnancy complications. These disparities contribute to broad- er inequities in women's health and maternal health outcomes. In New York, where communities of color make up a significant portion of the population, improving understanding of fibroids is critical to advancing health equity. However, research funding and comprehensive statewide data remain limited, leaving gaps in the medical community's ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent complications associated with fibroids. Establishing a statewide fibroid study program within the Department of Health will support inclusive research, strengthen data collection, and help inform public health strategies and clinical care. The program may also facilitate collaboration with New York's academic and medical institutions, including SUNY and CUNY research centers, to advance innovation in women's health. By prioritizing research on fibroids, New York State can improve treat- ment outcomes, address disparities in women's health, and strengthen efforts to improve maternal health across the state.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.