Bill > HR16

This resolution designates February 2, 2025, as "Rheumatoid Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania, highlighting the significant health challenges associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The resolution provides context about the disease, noting that RA is a progressive inflammatory condition affecting approximately 1% of the world's population, with over 1.3 million Americans diagnosed. It emphasizes that RA is more than just arthritis, causing joint and organ tissue damage, and presenting symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, fevers, and stiffness. The resolution points out critical health risks, including a 50% higher risk of heart attack and increased mortality, and notes that the lifetime risk differs by gender (3.6% for women and 1.7% for men). By recognizing February 2, 2025, as Rheumatoid Awareness Day, the resolution aims to increase public understanding of the disease, address misconceptions, and draw attention to the challenges faced by those with rheumatoid disease, particularly in areas like disability accommodations, clinical care, and research funding.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=R&bn=16