Bill > HR0232

This resolution declares May 2025 as Spondyloarthritis Awareness Month in Illinois, highlighting the significant impact of spondyloarthritis (a family of chronic rheumatic diseases) on Americans. The resolution emphasizes that spondyloarthritis affects 3.2 million adults in the U.S., more than RA (rheumatoid arthritis), ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), and MS (multiple sclerosis) combined, and typically begins before age 45 with symptoms like lower back pain and joint stiffness. The document notes that many patients, especially Black women, remain undiagnosed due to inadequate awareness, with an average diagnostic delay of seven to 10 years. The resolution underscores the complexity of the condition, which includes several subtypes and can lead to serious complications like spinal fusion, organ inflammation, and potential disability. By declaring this awareness month, the resolution aims to increase public and medical professional understanding of spondyloarthritis, emphasizing the critical importance of early diagnosis in improving patients' quality of life and treatment outcomes.

Health and Social Services

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=232&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HR&SessionID=114&GA=104