[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 129 (Friday, September 21, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1648]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING SEPTEMBER AS HYDROCEPHALUS AWARENESS MONTH

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                           HON. LEONARD LANCE

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 21, 2012

  Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize September as 
National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month. For too long, little attention 
has been paid to hydrocephalus.
  This condition can occur at any age and affects an estimated one 
million Americans.
  In fact, one out of every 500 babies in the United States is born 
with hydrocephalus, making the condition the leading cause of brain 
surgery in children. Additionally, an increasing number of our veterans 
are developing post-traumatic hydrocephalus as a result of brain 
injuries suffered on the battlefield.
  Currently, there is no single known cause of hydrocephalus or ways to 
prevent or cure the condition.
  The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is 
currently conducting research related to hydrocephalus prevention and 
treatment. However, more must be done at the community level to educate 
the American people about this surprisingly prevalent disorder.
  Recognizing the month of September as National Hydrocephalus 
Awareness Month will bring this disease to the public's attention and, 
I believe, will encourage the discussions necessary to address more 
effectively the devastating effects of this disease and provide support 
to families who live with it every day. Today I commend the hard work 
of the Michael and Kim Illions of Woodbridge, New Jersey for their 
advocacy on behalf of their son, Cole.
  I am certain that with federal support for additional research we can 
develop a better treatment, and eventually a cure, for those suffering 
from hydrocephalus and help them live healthier, fuller lives.

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