82R15904 MGR-D
By: Truitt H.R. No. 1070
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, An estimated six million people in the United States
have an unruptured brain aneurysm, representing nearly one in 50
Americans; and
WHEREAS, A brain aneurysm is a weak, bulging spot on the wall
of a brain artery, usually between an eighth of an inch to an inch in
size, that forms from continuous wear and tear on the arterial walls
over an extended period of time; though most aneurysms do not
rupture, a ruptured aneurysm is a very dangerous occurrence
associated with cerebral hemorrhage, high rates of mortality, and
disability; about 40 percent of ruptures are fatal, and of those who
survive, about two-thirds will suffer some permanent neurological
deficit; and
WHEREAS, Most prevalent in people ages 35 to 60, brain
aneurysms can also be found in children; each year, half a million
deaths worldwide can be attributed to brain aneurysms, and women
are somewhat more likely than men to be at risk; and
WHEREAS, Like heart attacks, brain aneurysm ruptures can
occur without warning; risk factors include smoking, hypertension,
drug use, traumatic head injuries, congenital abnormalities, and
family history; because of the severity of ruptures, accurate early
diagnosis is critical, and it can be performed through noninvasive
imaging and screening techniques; unfortunately, too many
aneurysms are ignored until it is too late, and misdiagnosis is
still all too common, but such organizations as The Brain Aneurysm
Foundation are doing commendable work to unite the medical
community, government, and the public in favor of conducting
crucial research minimizing the toll that brain aneurysms take on
our society; and
WHEREAS, Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month is an effort to call
attention to the devastating effects of brain aneurysms, to help
educate people about the importance of early detection, and to
provide support to those facing treatment and recovery; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas
Legislature hereby recognize September 2011 as Brain Aneurysm
Awareness Month and encourage all Texans to learn more about this
serious health matter.