HomeMy WebLinkAboutScleroderma Awareness Month_06.2011
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, 2011 as
SCLERODERMA AWARENESS MONTH