Rep. Tlaib offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 225. 

            A resolution to declare April 27, 2012, as Viral Hepatitis Awareness Day in the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, Liver cancer and liver disease related to hepatitis B and hepatitis C are among the leading killers in Michigan; and

            Whereas, Hepatitis C is the most prevalent blood borne disease in the United States; and          

            Whereas, Early detection of hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection promotes effective management or treatment of these infections, preventing disability, loss of productivity and

income, and allows persons to live full, satisfying, and productive lives; and

            Whereas, Undetected and untreated hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection can lead to disability or death; and

            Whereas, The majority of Michigan residents with chronic hepatitis B or C infection do not know they are infected  and are therefore at high risk of severe liver disease, liver cancer, or liver failure; and

            Whereas, Untreated  hepatitis B and hepatitis C are leading causes of liver failure requiring a liver transplant; and

            Whereas, There is a vaccine for the prevention of hepatitis B, the first proven low-cost vaccination against any form of cancer made available to Americans; and

            Whereas, Hepatitis awareness education campaigns and accessible screening for hepatitis B and hepatitis C along with appropriate treatment can reduce the damage from hepatitis B and hepatitis C viral infection to individuals and to our community; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare April 27, 2012, as Viral Hepatitis Awareness Day in the state of Michigan.