Expressing support for designation of the month of April 2025 as "Parkinsons Awareness Month".
This is a House Resolution (H. Res. 345) introduced in the 119th Congress expressing support for designating the month of April 2025 as “Parkinsons Awareness Month.” It is sponsored by Rep. Bell (for himself and Rep. Bilirakis) and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The resolution is a non-binding, symbolic statement that (1) endorses recognizing Parkinson’s Awareness Month, (2) supports ongoing research and education, (3) acknowledges individuals living with Parkinson’s disease who participate in clinical trials, and (4) commends organizations, volunteers, researchers, and families working to improve quality of life. The text provides context about the disease (prevalence, mortality, economic impact, and range of symptoms) but does not authorize new funding or create new programs.
Key Points
- 1Designation: The resolution supports designating April 2025 as “Parkinsons Awareness Month” and endorses its goals and ideals.
- 2Disease context: Parkinson’s disease affects over 1 million people in the U.S. with about 90,000 new diagnoses each year; it is the second most common neurodegenerative disease globally and a leading cause of death (15th in the U.S. per CDC).
- 3Future impact: Projections estimate the U.S. Parkinson’s population could nearly double by 2037, with annual costs of at least $80 billion.
- 4Symptoms and impact: Parkinson’s can include dementia, tremors, slowed movement, rigidity, balance/gait problems, speech/swallowing difficulties, depression, and other issues; millions of caregivers and loved ones are affected.
- 5Research and care emphasis: The resolution calls for more research, education, and community support to develop better treatments and a potential cure, while preserving dignity for those currently living with the disease.
- 6Recognition of participants and supporters: Recognizes individuals living with Parkinson’s who participate in clinical trials and commends the dedication of organizations, volunteers, researchers, and millions of Americans who support affected individuals and their families.