81R36382 CBE-D
By: Zerwas H.R. No. 2818
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Health professionals, health advocates, stroke
survivors, and others are observing American Stroke Month in May
2009, and their efforts are drawing vital attention to this
cardiovascular disease that affects nearly 800,000 Americans each
year; and
WHEREAS, According to the American Stroke Association, a
division of the American Heart Association, stroke is the third
leading cause of death in this country, a trend reflected
statewide, according to the Texas Department of State Health
Services; moreover, it is a leading cause of serious long-term
disability; while new and effective treatments have been developed
to minimize the severity of stroke, much more research is needed;
and
WHEREAS, Through its campaign, "Power to End Stroke," the ASA
is specifically reaching out to African Americans, who not only
have almost twice the risk of first-ever strokes compared to Anglos
but also higher death rates for stroke; and
WHEREAS, Although risk factors for stroke such as age,
heredity, race, gender, and a history of prior stroke cannot be
changed, those resulting from lifestyle or environment can be; one
of the most important controllable risk factors is high blood
pressure, often called the "silent killer" because it has no
symptoms; others that can be changed, treated, or controlled
include smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity and obesity,
carotid or other artery disease, atrial fibrillation, transient
ischemic attacks, certain blood disorders, high blood cholesterol,
excessive alcohol use, and illegal drug use; and
WHEREAS, Each minute a stroke goes untreated, the brain is at
risk for damage, but disability or death caused by stroke can be
prevented by recognizing and quickly responding to the following
warning signs: sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg,
especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion or trouble
speaking or understanding; sudden trouble seeing in one or both
eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or
coordination; and sudden, severe headache with no known cause; and
WHEREAS, By obtaining knowledge, making positive lifestyle
changes, and taking immediate action when necessary, individuals
can minimize their own risk of being afflicted by this debilitating
disease, and they can help their loved ones do the same; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby recognize May 2009 as American Stroke Month and
encourage all Texans to familiarize themselves with the warning
signs, symptoms, and risk factors associated with stroke.