H.R. No. 459
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Parkinson's disease is a chronic, progressive
neurological disease and the second most common neurodegenerative
condition in the United States; and
WHEREAS, The symptoms of Parkinson's disease can vary from
person to person and may include slowness of movement, rigidity,
gait and balance difficulties, and tremors; additionally, patients
may develop speech and swallowing disturbances, cognitive
impairment, dementia, mood disorders, and a range of other
symptoms; and
WHEREAS, While the exact cause of the condition in most
individuals is unknown, research suggests a combination of genetic
and environmental factors contributes to the development of
Parkinson's disease; there is no known cure and no drug that is
capable of slowing or halting the progression of the disease, and
available treatments are limited in their ability to address
patients' medical needs and to remain effective over time; and
WHEREAS, According to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, complications of Parkinson's disease are the 14th
leading cause of death in the United States; beyond the toll on
those who suffer from the disease, its impact is felt by millions of
caregivers, family members, and friends who form the support
systems of people living with Parkinson's; and
WHEREAS, It is estimated that one million people in the U.S.
are living with Parkinson's, and the number of Americans affected
by the disease is expected to increase to 1.2 million by 2030; a
study conducted by the Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2019 found that
the annual economic impact of Parkinson's disease totals nearly $52
billion in the U.S.; and
WHEREAS, Researchers and medical professionals, along with
caregivers and volunteers, are united in the fight against
Parkinson's disease and the search for a cure; interventions such
as physical and speech therapy are providing hope to people
affected by Parkinson's disease, but increased research,
education, and community support services are needed to find more
effective treatments and to ensure access to better care for
Parkinson's patients; and
WHEREAS, The observance of Parkinson's Awareness Month is a
time to renew our focus on improving the quality of life for
patients suffering from this debilitating disease, and it is indeed
fitting to recognize this worthwhile cause; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby recognize April 2025 as Parkinson's Awareness
Month and commend all those who are working in behalf of Texans
living with Parkinson's disease.
Lambert
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 459 was adopted by the House on March
31, 2025, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House