House Concurrent Resolution 53

(As Adopted by House and Senate)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE WEEK OF MAY 5-11, 2024, AS "TARDIVE DYSKINESIA AWARENESS WEEK" THROUGHOUT THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI AND ENCOURAGING ANYONE EXPERIENCING UNCONTROLLABLE, ABNORMAL AND REPETITIVE MOVEMENTS TO CONSULT THEIR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER REGARDING THEIR SYMPTOMS.

WHEREAS, many people living with serious mental illnesses (for example, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder) or gastrointestinal disorders (for example, gastroparesis, upset stomach, nausea and vomiting) may be treated with medications that work as dopamine receptor blocking agents, including antipsychotics and antiemetics; and

WHEREAS, while ongoing treatment with these medications can be necessary, prolonged use is associated with tardive dyskinesia (TD), an involuntary movement disorder that is characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal and repetitive movements of the face, torso, limbs, and fingers or toes; and

WHEREAS, even mild symptoms of TD can impact people physically, socially and emotionally; and

WHEREAS, it is estimated that TD affects approximately 600,000 people in the United States, and approximately 65 percent of people with TD have not been diagnosed, making it important to raise awareness about the symptoms; and

WHEREAS, it is important that people taking these medications be monitored for TD by a healthcare provider, and regular screening for TD is recommended by the American Psychiatric Association; and

WHEREAS, clinical research has led to approval of treatments for adults with TD by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and recognition and treatment of TD can make a positive impact in the lives of many people experiencing psychotic and mood disorders; and

WHEREAS, recognizing the week of May 5-11, 2024, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" and encouraging Mississippi to observe such week in honor of all who suffer from the diagnosis will help raise awareness of TD among the public and medical community; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Legislature to recognize and acknowledge matters of significance such as Tardive Dyskinesia and the implication of its causes and effects upon an individual's health and wellness for lack of awareness and proper diagnosis:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby recognize the week of May 5-11, 2024, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" throughout the State of Mississippi and encourage anyone experiencing uncontrollable, abnormal and repetitive movements to consult their healthcare provider regarding their symptoms.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That citizens of Mississippi are encouraged to become better informed about and aware of Tardive Dyskinesia.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the State Board of Health and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.