June 23, 2025
Mrs. Foushee submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce
Supporting the designation of Brain and Spine Metastasis Awareness Month
.
Whereas brain and spine metastasis can occur with almost any type of cancer;
Whereas improved cancer treatments are leading to longer patient survival, but brain and spine metastasis rates are increasing;
Whereas specific cancers commonly spread to the brain and spine, such as melanoma, lung, breast, colon, and prostate cancers;
Whereas brain metastases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer;
Whereas brain metastases are five times more common than primary brain tumors;
Whereas advanced treatment options are available to improve patient outcomes;
Whereas disparities in cancer care exist, and awareness is crucial to address these disparities;
Whereas different treatments are needed for brain and spine metastasis than for other cancers;
Whereas there are publicly available resources where patients and families can find information on brain and spine metastasis; and
Whereas new and novel therapies are offering hope, but more support and funding for clinical trials and specialized centers are necessary: Now, therefore, be it
Sec.
That the House of Representatives—
(1)
supports the designation of Brain and Spine Metastasis Awareness Month
;
(2)
recognizes and affirms the commitment by the House of Representatives to increasing awareness of treatment options for people with cancer that has spread to the brain or spine;
(3)
recognizes and affirms the dedication of the House of Representatives to increasing education for brain and spine metastasis so individuals can better understand their cancer or the cancer of a loved one; and
(4)
calls on the Secretary of Health and Human Services to—
(A)
increase education and awareness about treatment options available for patients with brain and spine metastases, including advances and improvements in medical therapies, such as targeted therapies or immunotherapies;
(B)
support resources to establish and support centers for brain and spine metastasis;
(C)
provide resources to increase access to dedicated clinical trials for patients with brain or spine metastases; and
(D)
invest in research specifically into the biology and treatment of brain and spine metastasis, particularly across cancers.