SR567: SR567 State Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Day; express support for the designation

26 LC 52 1058S Senate Resolution 567 By: Senators Kirkpatrick of the 32nd, Hufstetler of the 52nd, Watson of the 1st, Burns of the 23rd, Hatchett of the 50th and others ADOPTED SENATE A RESOLUTION Expressing support for the designation of a Prader-Willi Syndro me Awareness Day at the1 Capitol to raise awareness of and promote research on the disorder; and for other purposes.2 WHEREAS, occurring in approximately 1 out of every 15,000 births, Prader-Willi syndrome3 is a complex genetic disorder that causes an extreme and insati able appetite, which often4 results in morbid obesity; and5 WHEREAS, morbid obesity is the major cause of death for individ uals with Prader-Willi6 syndrome; and7 WHEREAS, Prader-Willi syndrome is the most commonly known genet ic cause of8 life-threatening obesity, affecting males and females with equal frequency across all races9 and ethnicities; and10 WHEREAS, Prader-Willi syndrome further causes cognitive and learning disabilities as well11 as behavioral difficulties, including obsessive compulsive disorder and difficulty controlling12 emotions, and studies have shown that individuals with the syndrome have a high morbidity13 and mortality rate; and14 S. R. 567 - 1 - 26 LC 52 1058S WHEREAS, the hunger, metabolic, and behavioral characteristics of Prader-Willi syndrome15 force affected individuals to require constant and lifelong sup ervision in a controlled16 environment; and17 WHEREAS, although there is no known cure for Prader-Willi syndr ome, early diagnosis18 allows families to access treatment, intervention services, and support from health19 professionals, advocacy organizations, and other families who a re dealing with the20 syndrome; and21 WHEREAS, recently discovered treatments, including the use of human growth hormone,22 are improving the quality of life for individuals with the synd rome and offer new hope to23 families, but many difficult symptoms associated with Prader-Wi lli syndrome remain24 untreated.25 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE Senate that the members of this body26 express their support for the designation of a Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Day at the27 Capitol in recognition of the efforts of the many advocates and organizations that encourage28 awareness, promote research, and provide education, support, and hope to those impacted by29 Prader-Willi syndrome.30 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed31 to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the32 press.33 S. R. 567 - 2 -