House Concurrent Resolution 111

(As Adopted by House and Senate)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2017 AS RHEUMATIC DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH IN THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI.

WHEREAS, rheumatic diseases are chronic, progressive, painful conditions and are the leading cause of disability in the United States; and

WHEREAS, rheumatic diseases now affect nearly one in four Americans and are expected to affect an estimated 78 million Americans by the year 2040; and

WHEREAS, 300,000 children live with some form of rheumatic disease; and

WHEREAS, it is estimated that the economic burden of rheumatic disease is at least $128 billion annually, including more than $80 billion in medical expenditures and $47 billion in annual indirect costs such as lost earnings; and

WHEREAS, research suggests the cause of rheumatic disease is a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but the exact cause of these diseases is still unknown; and

WHEREAS, the symptoms of rheumatic diseases vary depending on the individual and the disease, but may include joint or muscle pain, inflammation, swelling, redness or stiffness, eye irritation and inflammation, general fatigue, malaise, fevers, hair loss, dry eyes or mouth, chest pain, seizures or stroke; and

WHEREAS, there is currently no cure for rheumatic diseases, but medical research breakthroughs have led to treatments and therapies that can dramatically improve the quality of life for those living with rheumatic diseases; and

WHEREAS, rheumatologists, researchers, patients, caregivers and other advocates are working to improve the quality of life for people living with rheumatic diseases; and

WHEREAS, healthcare policies, research, education and community support services are needed to ensure patients receive timely, affordable, safe and effective treatments and have access to trained rheumatologists who can provide quality care to those living with these diseases:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby designate the month of September 2017, as Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month and urge all citizens to participate in activities promoting the awareness of rheumatic disease.

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