# Plain Language Summary: National Cholesterol Education Month Resolution

This is a symbolic resolution that designates September 2023 as "National Cholesterol Education Month" and September 30, 2023, as "LDL-C Awareness Day." It doesn't create any new laws or programs—instead, it's Congress expressing support for raising public awareness about cholesterol and heart disease. The resolution encourages Americans to know their LDL cholesterol number (the "bad" cholesterol that can clog arteries) and emphasizes the importance of getting screened and treated for high cholesterol.

The resolution highlights a serious health problem: heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, and it disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic communities, rural areas, and women. More than one in four American adults has high LDL cholesterol, yet many people don't know their numbers or aren't getting proper treatment. The resolution points out that even among people taking cholesterol-lowering medications like statins, only about a third actually reach their treatment goals. Additionally, many heart attack patients aren't getting follow-up cholesterol tests after leaving the hospital, which is a missed opportunity to prevent future heart attacks or strokes.

By designating these awareness days, Congress is essentially saying that people should talk to their doctors about getting their cholesterol checked and understanding what their LDL number means. This is particularly important for communities that have historically had less access to preventive healthcare. While this resolution doesn't directly change anyone's healthcare or provide new funding, it's meant to encourage both individuals and healthcare providers to take cholesterol management more seriously as a way to prevent heart disease and strokes.

Supporting the designation of September 2023 as "National Cholesterol Education Month", and September 30, 2023, as LDL-C Awareness Day.

Cherfilus-McCormick, Sheila

<p>This resolution recognizes the need for screening and treating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes.&nbsp;The resolution also encourages all individuals in the United States to know their LDL-C number. High levels of LDL-C increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.</p>