[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 143 (Monday, September 9, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Page S5356]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      NATIONAL GASTROPARESIS MONTH

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. President, I would like to call attention to the 
estimated 5 million Americans suffering from gastroparesis and 
recognize the observance of National Gastroparesis Month, which takes 
place in August.
  Gastroparesis is a chronic digestive disease caused by the stomach's 
inability to empty properly in the absence of any observable blockage. 
Symptoms of gastroparesis, which include nausea, vomiting, and the 
inability to finish a normal-sized meal, can lead to malnutrition, 
severe dehydration, and difficulty managing blood glucose levels. This 
debilitating and sometimes life-threatening disease affects people of 
all ages, including thousands of patients in my home State of 
Wisconsin, but it is four times more likely to affect women than men.
  There is no known cure for gastroparesis, and the condition is poorly 
understood. Some treatments, such as dietary measures, medications, 
procedures to maintain nutrition, and surgery, can help reduce 
symptoms; however, patients often face delayed diagnosis and struggle 
to manage their gastroparesis and access treatment. Increases in 
related hospitalizations and emergency room visits can be linked to 
rising rates of this disease, which may negatively impact the 
capabilities of our health care community.
  Nonprofit advocacy organizations like the International Foundation 
for Gastrointestinal Disorders, or IFFGD, are leading the charge to 
further research, raise awareness, and provide education and support to 
help those affected by gastroparesis. IFFGD was founded in my home 
state of Wisconsin, and I am proud of the work they do for 
gastroparesis patients across the country.
  In an effort to improve our understanding and awareness of 
gastroparesis, I urge my fellow colleagues to join me in recognizing 
August as National Gastroparesis Awareness Month. Thank you.

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