FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 24, 2007
Contact:  Erin Marsicano
(717) 787-3817
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Senate Adopts Hydrocephalus Awareness Resolution

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Senate has adopted Senate Resolution 192, sponsored by Senator Mike Waugh (R-York) and Senator Connie Williams (D- Montgomery & Delaware), along with 26 additional co-sponsors. The resolution designates November 2007 as Hydrocephalus Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.

Hydrocephalus is the abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluids on the brain.  Affecting an estimated 1 million Americans, there is no known cure for this very serious neurological condition.

"Both Senator Williams and I have constituents in our districts that are very passionate about this issue and approached us on the matter," said Waugh.  "So, together we decided to collaborate in an effort to make more Pennsylvanians aware of hydrocephalus, a disease that affects young and old alike." 

More than 375,000 older Americans have been diagnosed with this condition, but unfortunately, many more cases amongst senior citizens go misdiagnosed as dementia, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson's disease.  However, with an appropriate diagnosis and treatment, people with hydrocephalus can live full and productive lives. 

In addition to proclaiming November 2007 as Hydrocephalus Awareness Month, this resolution urges the federal government to collect comprehensive statistics and data regarding the seriousness of hydrocephalus and its impact on American families.

A press conference to kick off Hydrocephalus Awareness Month will be held on Tuesday, October 30th at 1pm in the Capitol Rotunda.