HomeMy WebLinkAboutScleroderma 06.2010
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Scleroderma is a chronic, disabling autoimmune disease in which the body’s soft
tissues suffer from an overproduction of collagen; and
WHEREAS, Scleroderma can affect many parts of the body including skin, internal organs,
and blood vessels; and
WHEREAS, Scleroderma sufferers often experience damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, and
the gastrointestinal system; and
WHEREAS, many sufferers develop pulmonary hypertension as a result of the constriction of
the blood vessels; and
WHEREAS, researchers have yet to identify the exact cause of scleroderma, but have found
links between scleroderma and rheumatic disease, and
WHEREAS, an estimated 300,000 Americans suffer from scleroderma, and 80 percent of those
are women; and
WHEREAS, the estimated total economic impact of scleroderma treatment is estimated to be in
excess of $1.5 billion annually.
WHEREAS, there is a significant need for further research focusing on the epidemiology of
scleroderma to increase understanding of the causes of the disease and its treatment; and
WHEREAS, it is important to recognize the efforts of health care providers, patients, and
scleroderma advocacy organizations to increase awareness of scleroderma and of the need for
increased research on scleroderma.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE GARVER, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN,
TEXAS, do hereby proclaim the month of June, 2010 as
SCLERODERMA AWARENESS MONTH
