Missouri Senate Bill SR706

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/22
• Refer: 4/4/22

Caption

Designates the week of May 1, 2022, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" in Missouri

Impact

The resolution acknowledges the significant number of Americans affected by tardive dyskinesia, estimating over 500,000 individuals, with about one in four patients on long-term antipsychotic medications expected to experience symptoms. By designating a specific week for awareness, the resolution seeks to encourage both the public and medical professionals to better recognize and address the risks and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. This could potentially lead to improved patient outcomes, as regular screenings are recommended by the American Psychiatric Association.

Summary

Senate Resolution 706 designates the week of May 1, 2022, as 'Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week' in Missouri. This resolution aims to raise awareness about tardive dyskinesia (TD), a neurological condition that can develop as a side effect of long-term treatment with dopamine receptor blocking agents (DRBAs), such as antipsychotic medications. The resolution emphasizes the clinical challenges associated with tardive dyskinesia, including its often late recognition and the stigma faced by patients who experience involuntary movements resulting from the disorder.

Contention

While the resolution itself does not establish new laws, it is rooted in the need for greater public and medical community awareness regarding tardive dyskinesia. The acknowledgment of this condition is crucial, as it highlights the delicate balance between managing severe mental health issues and mitigating the side effects of necessary treatments. The resolution also brings attention to the challenges faced by caregivers of those affected by tardive dyskinesia, which may not be widely recognized or understood, further underscoring the need for supportive measures and educational resources.