HR135: HR135 Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome Awareness Day at the state capitol; 2/3/25; recognize

25 LC 112 2831 House Resolution 135 By: Representative Hong of the 103rd A RESOLUTION Recognizing February 3, 2025, as Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome Awareness Day at1 the state capitol; and for other purposes.2 WHEREAS, Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome (TSWS), also known as Topical Steroid3 Addiction or Red Skin Syndrome, is a severe and debilitating condition that can arise from4 intentional or unintentional exposure to topical steroids; and5 WHEREAS, topical steroids are widely prescribed and available o ver the counter to treat6 both acute and chronic skin conditions, including eczema, psori asis, vitiligo, and alopecia7 areata; and8 WHEREAS, TSWS is characterized by severe symptoms such as skin flushing,9 inflammation, diffuse spreading rashes, profuse skin flaking, and intense burning and itching10 that often surpass the severity of the original condition, typi cally manifesting after the use11 of topical steroids, between treatments, or upon discontinuation; and12 WHEREAS, recovery from TSWS can take several months to several years, leaving many13 sufferers bedridden or housebound and unable to work, care for children, or attend school;14 and15 H. R. 135 - 1 - 25 LC 112 2831 WHEREAS, the prolonged withdrawal and recovery period can have a profound impact on16 both physical and mental health, with 81 percent of adults and 56 percent of children17 experiencing TSWS reporting anxiety or depression and 47 percent of adults and 11 percent18 of children reporting suicidal ideation; and19 WHEREAS, the prevalence of topical steroid addiction remains unknown due to a scarcity20 of published research; and21 WHEREAS, limited research on TSWS hinders the development of diagnostic criteria; the22 understanding of its causes, effects, and mechanisms; the estab lishment of appropriate23 treatment protocols; and the education of both healthcare providers and patients on TSWS24 and steroid stewardship; and25 WHEREAS, a lack of awareness and education about TSWS among bot h patients and26 providers can lead to misunderstandings, causing patients to question their providers' medical27 oversight and leading providers to suspect medication non-compl iance or, in some cases,28 parental neglect; and29 WHEREAS, all parties would benefit greatly from increased aware ness and prevention30 education on the signs of topical steroid dependence and the risks associated with TSWS.31 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that32 the members of this body recognize February 3, 2025, as Topical Steroid Withdrawal33 Syndrome Awareness Day at the state capitol.34 H. R. 135 - 2 - 25 LC 112 2831 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized35 and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution avai lable for distribution to the36 public and the press.37 H. R. 135 - 3 -