This resolution acknowledges the significance of colorectal cancer as the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States and emphasizes its preventability through early screening. It notes that early detection of colorectal cancer greatly increases the five-year survival rate, while late-stage detection drastically reduces survival chances. The resolution also highlights the American Cancer Society's estimate that 2,750 Alabamians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 900 will die from it in 2024. It points out that one in three Alabamians over the age of 45 are not being screened for colorectal cancer, with deaths disproportionately affecting underserved communities.

The resolution urges the Alabama Legislature to recognize the importance of colorectal cancer screening and to encourage the Alabama Medicaid program to provide equal access to all recommended screening modalities for individuals 45 years and older. This would align Medicaid coverage with state-regulated health plans, which are required by Alabama law to cover colorectal cancer screening tests following American Cancer Society guidelines. The resolution aims to increase patient participation in screenings by ensuring access to various recommended screening options, such as colonoscopy, CT colonography, and other tests, thus potentially saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.