Current Advocacy Issues
Current Issues: Sickle Cell I Pediatric Mental Health I New Hospital at Parnassus Heights
Ask Congress to Fund Sickle Cell Research & Awareness
As we recover from the pandemic, investments in research and education that address health disparities in underserved communities are more critical than ever. Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) is leading Congressional efforts to increase awareness and funding for sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait, which disproportionally impacts Black and Latino communities. Ask Congress to support sickle cell research and help ensure access to testing and lifesaving information. Send an email in support:
Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the U.S. At least 3 million people in the U.S. carry the sickle cell trait that can lead to adverse health complications, including 1 in 12 African Americans and 1 in 100 Latinos. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow or prevent some medical complications. Unfortunately, many people don’t know their status. We must ensure everyone has the tools, support, and treatment options needed to prevent and fight sickle cell disease. Ask your Congressmember to support funding for sickle cell research and prevention today (H.Res.494 and H.Res.495).
About UCSF Sickle Cell Research & Patient Care
UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in Oakland's Comprehensive Center for Sickle Cell Disease is the largest and most comprehensive program for sickle cell disease in the Western US. Legislation like H.Res.494 and H.Res.495 will enable UCSF to expand research and work with partners to find a cure.
In collaboration with UC Berkley and UC Los Angeles, UCSF recently launched an early phase, first-in-human trial of CRISPR gene correction therapy for patients with sickle disease using their own blood-forming stem cells for treatment. By focusing on innovative research and offering the latest treatments, UCSF helps sickle cell patients to achieve the best quality of life possible. Read more here.
Urge Congress to Prioritize Pediatric Mental Health
Our children and teens are facing a mental health crisis and desperately need help. Join UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals and the Children’s Hospital Association and urge Congress to declare a national emergency and fund children's mental and behavioral health services now. Take action using this customizable email template:
The impact of the pandemic will live forever among children. Youth anxiety, depression and suicide are on the rise. More than 140,000 American children lost a caregiver due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals across the country have seen a 24% increase in mental health emergencies for kids ages 5 to 11 during the pandemic. We must #SoundtheAlarm4Kids and protect every child in America so they may live up to their full potential.
Thank you for taking the time to let your lawmakers know how they can immediately act to confront the children's mental health national emergency. By supporting emergency, preventative, early intervention, wraparound services and integrated care and treatment, we can stem this escalating crisis.
Join in Support of the New Hospital at UCSF Parnassus Heights for San Francisco and Beyond
UCSF is planning to build a new hospital and update UCSF's oldest campus to care for more patients, enhance health professional training, advance research, and expand services to the community. Join us to help secure a new future for UCSF Parnassus Heights and a state-of-the-art hospital.
Sign up to Advocate for the New UCSF Parnassus Heights Hospital
Your voice is crucial to help us update our outdated and obsolete facilities, help UCSF meet the state’s hospital seismic deadline in 2030, and ensure there are no delays in critical investments in SF's local workforce and economy. Together, we will advocate for expanded patient care, economic investments, and jobs for San Francisco.
Thank you for helping UCSF continue its mission of service in Parnassus Heights!