H.R.3490 - Gerald E. Connolly Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3490, the Gerald E. Connolly Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act of 2025, mandates the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to produce a report on esophageal cancer. The report will evaluate the total impact of esophageal cancer-related healthcare spending under the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). It will also assess how often high-risk individuals covered by FEHBP undergo screening according to established guidelines.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to increase awareness and understanding of esophageal cancer, particularly its financial impact on the federal government and the screening rates of high-risk individuals. This could lead to improved screening practices and earlier detection. Ultimately, the goal is to improve patient outcomes and potentially reduce healthcare costs associated with advanced-stage diagnoses.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of esophageal cancer and its risk factors.
- Improved understanding of the financial burden of esophageal cancer on the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program.
- Potential for improved screening rates among high-risk individuals.
- Earlier detection of esophageal cancer, leading to better treatment outcomes.
- Data-driven insights for future healthcare policy decisions related to cancer prevention and treatment.
Potential Disadvantages
- The Act primarily focuses on federal employees and retirees, potentially overlooking other populations at risk.
- The GAO report may take time and resources to produce, with no guarantee of immediate action based on its findings.
- The Act does not directly address the underlying causes of esophageal cancer or provide funding for research or treatment.
- The report's findings may not be widely disseminated to the general public, limiting its impact on overall awareness.
- There is no guarantee that increased screening will lead to a significant reduction in mortality rates.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to enact legislation that promotes the health and well-being of the population. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. This act falls under that purview as it seeks to understand and address a public health issue.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).