house resolution no.236

Reps. Kahle, Bezotte, Ellison, Haadsma, Rabhi, Sabo, Sneller, Steenland and Thanedar offered the following resolution:

A resolution to declare February 23, 2022, as Scoliosis Screening Awareness Day in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, It is important to increase the public’s awareness of scoliosis and help children, parents, adults, and health care providers understand, recognize, and treat the complexities of spinal deformities such as scoliosis; and

Whereas, Scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, is a condition affecting an estimated six to nine million Americans, and can strike regardless of gender, race, age, or economic status; and

Whereas, Scoliosis patients make more than 600,000 visits to health providers yearly, with approximately 30% of patients requiring bracing, and 10% requiring surgery; and

Whereas, The primary age of onset for scoliosis is between ten and 15 years old, with females being up to eight times more likely to progress to a curve magnitude that would require treatment; and

Whereas, Screening programs are quick, unobtrusive, and allow for early detection and treatment opportunities which may alleviate the worst effects of the condition; and

Whereas, This day is designated to raise awareness of scoliosis screening, provide support to those who are diagnosed with this condition, and to recognize the need for increased research and funding to improve treatment; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare February 23, 2022, as Scoliosis Screening Awareness Day in Michigan.