The resolution urges Congress to pass the Find It Early Act, which aims to improve access to breast cancer screenings for women at higher risk, particularly those with dense breast tissue. Breast cancer is a significant health concern, being a leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the U.S. and New Jersey. Early detection through screenings like mammograms is crucial, as the five-year survival rate is significantly higher when cancer is diagnosed early. However, many women with dense breasts may not receive timely diagnoses due to the limitations of mammograms, which can obscure cancer detection. This issue is compounded by the fact that additional screening methods, such as breast ultrasounds and MRIs, may not be fully covered by insurance, leading to high out-of-pocket costs.

The Find It Early Act, introduced by Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro, seeks to address these challenges by mandating that all health insurance plans cover breast cancer screenings and diagnostic imaging for women with dense breasts or other risk factors at no cost to the insured. By ensuring that these essential screenings are accessible without financial barriers, the Act aims to facilitate early detection of breast cancer, ultimately improving survival rates. The New Jersey Legislature emphasizes the importance of swift congressional action on this matter to protect women's health and enhance their chances of early diagnosis and treatment.