SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 549
	WHEREAS, Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive
	neurological disorder and the second most common neurodegenerative
	disease in the United States; and
	WHEREAS, Parkinson's disease is estimated to affect
	between 500,000 and 1.5 million people in the United States, and
	by 2040, its prevalence is projected to more than double; and
	WHEREAS, The symptoms of Parkinson's disease worsen over
	time and may include tremors, slowness of movement, rigidity,
	trouble with balance, cognitive impairment, mood disorders, and
	difficulties with speaking, swallowing, chewing, and other
	actions; and
	WHEREAS, According to the Centers for Disease Control and
	Prevention, Parkinson's disease is the 14th leading cause of
	death in the United States; it is estimated that the economic
	burden of Parkinson's is at least $14.4 billion annually,
	including indirect costs to patients and family members of
	approximately $6.3 billion; and
	WHEREAS, Research suggests that genetic and environmental
	factors may contribute to the development of Parkinson's
	disease, but the exact cause and progression of the disease
	remains unknown; there is no standard diagnostic test or known
	biological marker for Parkinson's, and at this time, there is no
	cure or drug to slow or halt its progression; and
	WHEREAS, A number of treatments, therapies, and lifestyle
	changes can help ease Parkinson's symptoms, and volunteers,
	researchers,caregivers,andmedicalprofessionalsalikecanall
	play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for patients
	and their families at all stages of the disorder; and
	WHEREAS, More research, education, and community support
	services are needed if we are to develop better treatments and
	ensure access to quality care for all Parkinson's sufferers, and
	public awareness is an important ally in these efforts; now,
	therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th
	Legislature, hereby recognize April 2017 as Parkinson's Disease
	Awareness Month and encourage all Texans to learn more about this
	devastating condition.
	Hall
		________________________________
		President of the Senate
		I hereby certify that the
		above Resolution was adopted by
		the Senate on April 12, 2017.
		________________________________
		Secretary of the Senate
		________________________________
		Member, Texas Senate