Alopecia Areata Language in Omnibus Bill The recently passed congressional Omnibus FY 2023 Appropriations bill includes the following language created by by Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA): Alopecia Areata – The Committee notes the importance of research into autoimmune skin conditions such as alopecia areata. The Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional Justification on research initiatives into this condition and opportunities to advance research. Mental Health Impact of Alopecia.—The Committee notes recent events that have highlighted the effect on an individual’s mental health because of alopecia. The Committee encourages the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH) to work with key stakeholders to advance research and resource development aimed at understanding this connection and opportunities for innovative discovery. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Alopecia.—The Committee notes the disproportionate effect of alopecia on people of color, specifically women. The Committee encourages National Institutes of Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) to collaborate with relevant Institutes and Centers, such as the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), and relevant stakeholders to identify key research areas of concern. Read the rest of this article and the full issue of the Enews here>>>
