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TO DECLARE APRIL 2014 AS "SARCOIDOSIS AWARENESS MONTH" IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO ENCOURAGE THE CITIZENS OF THE PALMETTO STATE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS DISEASE AND SHOW SUPPORT FOR ITS VICTIMS.
Whereas, a potentially fatal inflammatory disease that causes the immune system to damage the body's own tissue, sarcoidosis can appear in almost any organ in the body but most commonly manifests itself in the lungs and lymph nodes; and
Whereas, those who contract sarcoidosis suffer in chronic, debilitating ways and present symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and an overall feeling of general malaise; and
Whereas, well-known victims of the disease include Hall of Fame athletes Bill Russell and Reggie White and comedian Bernie Mac, who passed away as a result of sarcoidosis; and
Whereas, while some progress has been made in recognizing the symptoms of sarcoidosis and in diagnosing its presence, the cause of this rare disease remains unknown; and
Whereas, although prevalence rates for sarcoidosis can only be estimated because many with the disease go undiagnosed, the estimated prevalence rates in the United States range from one to forty per one hundred thousand people; and
Whereas, through instituting further research, quantifying the prevalence of the disease, discovering the causes, and improving treatment, medical authorities may find that a cure for this debilitating disease is well within reach; and
Whereas, during the month of April, worldwide events are scheduled to increase public awareness of the need to support individuals with sarcoidosis, to encourage more research funding, and to educate the public about the disease; and
Whereas, greater awareness and knowledge of sarcoidosis in the medical and lay communities would substantially benefit those affected and ultimately will help to find a cure for this deadly disease. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:
That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, declare April 2014 as "Sarcoidosis Awareness Month" in South Carolina and encourage the citizens of the Palmetto State to learn more about this disease and show support for its victims.
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