[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 3]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 4269]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING APRIL AS PARKINSON'S AWARENESS MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETER T. KING

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 27, 2012

  Mr. KING of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
April as Parkinson's Awareness Month. It is essential to take this time 
to promote awareness, share information on the disease, and continue to 
work towards a cure.
  Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative 
disease in the United States. It is a chronic, progressive neurological 
disease for which there is no therapy or drug to halt its progression, 
let alone a cure.
  According to the National Institutes of Health, the four primary 
symptoms of Parkinson's are tremor or trembling, rigidity of the limbs 
and trunk, slowness of movement, and impaired balance and coordination. 
As these symptoms become more pronounced, it may become more difficult 
for one to walk, talk or perform other tasks. Parkinson's disease 
usually affects people over the age of 50 and symptoms may progress 
more rapidly in some cases than in others. Diagnosis is generally based 
on medical history and a neurological examination.
  It is estimated that there are between 500,000-1,500,000 Americans 
living with Parkinson's. Furthermore, the aging baby boomer population 
will likely increase that number. Although significant research 
advancements have been made, additional research is required to 
understand the underlying causes and to discover improved treatments.
  As a co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Parkinson's disease, it 
is my privilege to work with the tireless advocates in the Parkinson's 
community. I thank them for their hard work and dedication to 
understanding and eradicating this disease.

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