A senate RESOLUTION

 

TO RECOGNIZE THE IMPACT OF POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS) ON THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO DECLARE SEPTEMBER AS "PCOS AWARENESS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

 

Whereas, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a serious genetic, hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive disorder impacting nearly fifteen percent of women and girls in South Carolina and across the United States; and

 

Whereas, PCOS is a leading cause of infertility and is associated with serious health risks, including Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, endometrial cancer, obesity, anxiety, depression, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and other life-threatening conditions; and

 

Whereas, over fifty percent of women with PCOS go undiagnosed or are misdiagnosed, leading to delays in appropriate treatment and an increased risk of long-term health complications; and

 

Whereas, PCOS is linked to a higher likelihood of pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm delivery, miscarriage, and increased fetal and infant mortality; and

 

Whereas, the annual economic burden of PCOS is estimated to exceed $15 billion in the United States, not including the costs of associated comorbidities in adolescence; and

 

Whereas, early detection, improved treatment, and greater awareness are essential to improving health outcomes for individuals affected by PCOS; and

 

Whereas, advocacy organizations such as PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association continue to raise awareness, promote research, and support those affected by PCOS; and

 

Whereas, recognizing September as PCOS Awareness Month in South Carolina will bring greater attention to this critical public health issue and encourage support for improved research, treatment, and patient care.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize the impact of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) on the health and well-being of women and girls in South Carolina and declare September as "PCOS Awareness Month" in the State of South Carolina.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Governor of South Carolina and relevant health organizations to encourage statewide recognition and action on this important issue, and that a copy of this resolution be presented to Payton Lang, Miss Palmetto 2025, for her advocacy work in this area.

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