Gerald E. Connolly Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act of 2025

This bill focuses on esophageal cancer and how it affects people covered by the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). It highlights that esophageal cancer is rising fast, is often found late, and has low survival rates. It notes that early detection—especially by finding and treating Barrett’s esophagus—can save lives, and that national experts recommend screening people with several risk factors like being male, age 50+, non-Hispanic White, a history of smoking, long-term reflux, obesity, or a family history of related conditions .

The bill requires a federal watchdog to report back within one year on two things: how much FEHBP spends on care for enrollees with esophageal cancer, and how often high‑risk enrollees get screened according to guidelines. It does not change coverage on its own; it gathers facts to guide future decisions .

• Who is affected: People covered by FEHBP (federal workers, retirees, and their families)
• What changes: A one‑time report on costs and screening rates for high‑risk patients; no direct benefit changes
• Why it matters: Esophageal cancer is increasing, deadly when found late, and early screening can improve survival
• When: The report is due within one year after the law takes effect

Key context on risk and screening recommendations comes from the bill’s findings section, which cites current medical guidance on who should be screened and why early detection matters .