A resolution to designate May 5-11, 2024, as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week.
Impact
The resolution reflects a growing acknowledgment of TD as a significant health concern, impacting approximately 600,000 individuals in the United States. With an estimated 65% of those affected not diagnosed, raising awareness is critical for early detection and treatment. By formally designating this week, the bill will encourage healthcare providers to prioritize monitoring for TD in patients treated with dopamine receptor blocking agents, thereby potentially improving the quality of care and life for many individuals suffering from movement disorders.
Summary
Senate Resolution 0117 aims to designate the week of May 5-11, 2024, as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week. This resolution seeks to raise public awareness about Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), a movement disorder often resulting from the use of certain medications used in treating serious mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia. The bill highlights the importance of recognizing the symptoms of TD, which can vary from mild to severe, and the need for routine screening and monitoring for affected individuals. By declaring this week, the resolution aims to improve understanding of TD among the general public and medical community alike.
Contention
While the resolution is largely supportive in nature, it underscores the need for ongoing dialogue within the healthcare community regarding the long-term effects of antipsychotic medications. Some stakeholders may debate the extent to which mental health treatment protocols should incorporate regular monitoring for TD, as well as the adequacy of current treatments approved for managing the disorder. Nevertheless, the bill represents a proactive step in legislating mental health awareness and could catalyze further initiatives related to patient education and support.