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House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	September 26, 2017 01:38 PM
From:	Representative Aaron Bernstine
To:	All House members
Subject:	Resolution Raising Awareness for Spinal Muscular Atrophy in Pennsylvania

In the near future, I plan to introduce a resolution raising awareness for Spinal Muscular Atrophy in Pennsylvania. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare genetically inherited disease affecting the part of the nervous system that controls voluntary muscle movement. SMA is the leading genetic cause of death for infants and toddlers. Among autosomal recessive disorders, SMA is the most common fatal disease and is second in birth prevalence only to cystic fibrosis. Each year in the United States, one in every 6,000 to 10,000 people develop spinal muscular atrophy, and 1 in every 50 Americans is a genetic carrier of the disease. Currently there are about 237,083 SMA carriers in Pennsylvania with approximately 13 babies born with SMA annually. This rare disorder can interfere with basic life functions such as breathing and swallowing. Currently, there is no known cure for this disease. I encourage everyone to join together to honor those who have lost their lives, and those who are living with this disease. It is my hope that we can raise awareness about the consequences this devastating illness has on those affected and their families. Please consider co-sponsoring this resolution in a continued effort to increase awareness of this genetic disease.

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