to person and can include asymmetric tremors, slowness of
movement and rigidity, difficulty with balance, swallowing,
chewing and speaking, cognitive impairment and dementia, mood
disorders and a variety of other nonmotor symptoms; and
WHEREAS, It is estimated that the economic burden of
Parkinson's disease is at least $25 billion annually to patients
and family members which includes direct and indirect costs,
treatment, social security payments and lost income; and
WHEREAS, While research suggests the cause of Parkinson's
disease is a combination of genetic and environmental factors,
the exact cause and progression of the disease is still unknown;
and
WHEREAS, There is no objective test or biomarker for
Parkinson's disease, and there is no cure or drug to slow or
halt the progression of the disease; and
WHEREAS, The National Parkinson's Foundation and The Michael
J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research along with many
volunteers, researchers, caregivers and medical professionals
are working to improve the quality of life of individuals living
with Parkinson's disease and their families and to further
promote Parkinson's disease awareness, education, knowledge,
treatment and research; and
WHEREAS, Further efforts in research, testing and education
are crucial in order to advance toward improved early detection
methods, the discovery of more effective treatments to stop the
progression of Parkinson's disease and, ultimately, to find a
cure for this devastating disease; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the
month of April 2019 as "Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month" in
Pennsylvania; and be it further
20190HR0215PN1331 - 2 -
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