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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2015 - 2016
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | February 2, 2016 12:41 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Jim Marshall |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Resolution designating March 21, 2016 as "World Down Syndrome Day " |
| In the near future, I plan to introduce a House Resolution recognizing March 21, 2016 as “World Down Syndrome Day” in Pennsylvania. Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs in approximately one in every 800 births. There are more than 400,000 people of various ethnic, religious and socioeconomic groups with Down syndrome living in the United States. While people with Down syndrome are at a higher risk for various conditions, such as congenital heart defects, respiratory problems and thyroid issues, advances in treatments enable them to lead healthy lives. Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased from 25 years of age in 1983 to 60 years of age today. Early intervention, appropriate speech, physical and occupational therapies and quality education programs enable people with Down syndrome to adapt and thrive. The date for World Down Syndrome Day, the 21st day of the third month of the year, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome. Thank you and I hope you will consider joining me in support of this legislation. |
Introduced as HR711
Memo Updated: February 2, 2016 12:46 PM