Michigan House Bill HR0102

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/4/23
• Passed: 5/4/23

Caption

A resolution to declare May 2023 as Huntington's Disease Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.

Impact

The resolution is primarily symbolic but highlights the critical nature of Huntington's disease and the need for continued research and public education. By designating May 2023 as awareness month, the resolution seeks to unite citizens, healthcare providers, and advocates in efforts to educate others about the risks and needs associated with Huntington's disease. This can foster community support for affected families and encourage resources allocation towards research initiatives aimed at finding effective treatments.

Summary

House Resolution 0102 proposes to declare May 2023 as Huntington's Disease Awareness Month in the state of Michigan. This aims to inform the public and raise awareness regarding Huntington's disease, a progressive degenerative neurological condition that affects a significant number of people in the U.S. Approximately 41,000 Americans are currently diagnosed with the disease, while an estimated 200,000 are at genetic risk of inheriting the condition. The resolution aims to acknowledge these statistics and the importance of research in combating this disease, emphasizing the need for public awareness and medical community engagement.

Contention

While the resolution currently does not seem to face significant opposition, it reflects ongoing concerns in the medical community regarding the lack of treatment options for Huntington's disease. By raising awareness, advocates hope to provoke discussions around genetic screening, ethical considerations, and the necessity for funding in research. The declaration underscores the societal importance of acknowledging genetic diseases and recognizes the role of public advocacy in influencing health policies and research funding.