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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 10, 2020 12:41 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Maria Collett |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week |
| In the near future, I will be introducing a resolution designating the first full week of May as “Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week” in Pennsylvania. Tardive Dyskinesia, also known as TD, is a neurological disorder associated with taking certain kinds of medications that treat mental illness, such as antipsychotics. The condition is characterized by random, involuntary and uncontrollable muscle movements, which may appear in the face, neck, limbs or torso. While it’s estimated that there are 500,000 cases of TD across the U.S., upwards of 50% of these cases are undiagnosed. The condition is often misunderstood due to a lack of public awareness, and symptoms can often be mistaken for other conditions, such as Parkinson’s Disease or tic disorders. TD may continue indefinitely, even after stopping or changing medication; however, the earlier it is diagnosed, the better the chances that treatment will be effective. TD Awareness Week aims to educate the public about this condition and promote assistance for those who may be affected. Increasing education, awareness, and recognition of TD will give those who may be suffering the knowledge necessary to start a conversation with their doctor and work toward diagnosis and treatment. I hope you will join me in raising awareness of this debilitating disease by cosponsoring this resolution. |