III 111th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 543 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES May 27 (legislative day, May 26), 2010 Mr. Menendez (for himself, Mr. Leahy, and Mr. Cardin) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Expressing support for the designation of a National Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month to raise awareness of and promote research on the disorder.

Whereas Prader-Willi syndrome is a complex genetic disorder that occurs in approximately 1 out of every 15,000 births; Whereas Prader-Willi syndrome is the most commonly known genetic cause of life-threatening obesity; Whereas Prader-Willi syndrome affects— (1)males and females with equal frequency; and (2)all races and ethnicities; Whereas Prader-Willi syndrome causes an extreme and insatiable appetite, often resulting in morbid obesity; Whereas morbid obesity is the major cause of death for individuals with the Prader-Willi syndrome; Whereas Prader-Willi syndrome causes cognitive and learning disabilities and behavioral difficulties, including obsessive-compulsive disorder and difficulty controlling emotions; Whereas the hunger, metabolic, and behavioral characteristics of Prader-Willi syndrome force affected individuals to require constant and lifelong supervision in a controlled environment; Whereas studies have shown that individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome have a high morbidity and mortality rate; Whereas there is no known cure for Prader-Willi syndrome; Whereas early diagnosis of Prader-Willi syndrome allows families to access treatment, intervention services, and support from health professionals, advocacy organizations, and other families who are dealing with the syndrome; Whereas recently discovered treatments, including the use of human growth hormone, are improving the quality of life for individuals with the syndrome and offer new hope to families, but many difficult symptoms associated with Prader-Willi syndrome remain untreated; Whereas increased research into Prader-Willi syndrome— (1)may lead to a better understanding of the disorder, more effective treatments, and an eventual cure for Prader-Willi syndrome; and (2)is likely to lead to a better understanding of common public health concerns, including childhood obesity and mental health; and Whereas advocacy organizations have designated May as Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1)supports raising awareness and educating the public about Prader-Willi syndrome; (2)applauds the efforts of advocates and organizations that encourage awareness, promote research, and provide education, support, and hope to those impacted by Prader-Willi syndrome; (3)recognizes the commitment of parents, families, researchers, health professionals, and others dedicated to finding an effective treatment and eventual cure for Prader-Willi syndrome; and (4)expresses support for the designation of a National Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month.