The resolution designates May 17 of each year as Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Awareness Day in New Jersey, aiming to raise public awareness about this serious intestinal disease that primarily affects medically fragile infants. NEC is characterized by inflammation and tissue damage in the intestines, leading to severe complications, including systemic infection and developmental delays. It affects approximately one in 1,000 premature infants and is a leading cause of hospitalization and death in this population. The resolution highlights the significant financial burden NEC places on families and healthcare systems, with annual hospital expenses reaching around $5.8 billion in the U.S. alone.

By establishing NEC Awareness Day, the resolution seeks to promote education and interventions that can help reduce the prevalence of this condition. It calls for the Governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing the day and encourages public officials and citizens to engage in activities that raise awareness about NEC and its risk factors. The resolution aligns with World NEC Awareness Day, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to the incidence of NEC in New Jersey.