TITLE: Recognizing May 2017 as Lupus Awareness Month.

SUMMARY: Recognizing May 2017 as Lupus Awareness Month.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Lupus Foundation of America is observing National Lupus Awareness Month in May 2017 to show support for the estimated 1.5 million Americans who suffer from the effects of lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease; and WHEREAS, Lupus can cause severe damage to the body's tissues and organs, including skin, lungs, heart, kidneys, and brain; the disease can also cause seizures, strokes, heart attacks, miscarriages, and organ failure, and in some cases it can lead to death; and WHEREAS, Research has shown that lupus is most prevalent among women, African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and Native Americans; because its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses, the disease can be difficult to diagnose; moreover, research efforts related to lupus suffer from a lack of funding when compared with disorders of similar magnitude and severity; and WHEREAS, While there is presently no cure for lupus, it can be effectively treated, enabling patients to lead active, healthy lives; and WHEREAS, Focusing public attention on lupus will enable those affected to more quickly access treatment, and increased understanding of the disease will help build support for further research; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas Legislature hereby recognize May 2017 as Lupus Awareness Month and encourage Texans to join the Lone Star Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America in its efforts to share information about this significant public health issue. Rose Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 2666 was adopted by the House on May 29,2017, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House