WHEREAS, The prevalence rate of MG in the United States is an
estimated 20 out of every 100,000 people; and
WHEREAS, MG is indiscriminate in its affliction, as it can
occur in all ethnic groups and genders, but primarily affects
young adult women under 40 years of age and older men over 70
years of age; and
WHEREAS, It is important to note that MG is not hereditary,
nor is it contagious, and in most cases, its symptoms
manifesting in the form of weakness of the eye muscles,
difficulty in swallowing, slurred or impaired speech, shortness
of breath and weakness in the arms, hands, fingers, legs or
neck; and
WHEREAS, Since weakness is a common symptom of many
disorders, the diagnosis of MG is often overlooked or
unnecessarily deferred; and
WHEREAS, If underdiagnosed or untreated, MG can progressively
result in a myasthenic crisis or respiratory failure; and
WHEREAS, MG can generally be treated and controlled with the
use of medications, therapies or surgical procedures that
include anticholinesterase agents, immunosuppressive drugs,
plasmapheresis or a thymectomy, which is the removal of the
thymus gland; and
WHEREAS, The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and
Stroke maintains the primary responsibility of conducting and
supporting research on brain and nervous system disorders,
including MG; and
WHEREAS, Organizations such as the Myasthenia Gravis
Foundation of America (MGFA), the Muscular Dystrophy Association
and the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pennsylvania
(MGAWP)at Allegheny General Hospital are leading the effort to
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