RECOGNIZING MAY 2025 AS "MYOSITIS AWARENESS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE.

Legislation Document

SPONSOR:

Rep. Romer & Rep. Gorman & Sen. Sokola

Reps. Bolden, Heffernan, K. Johnson, Ortega, Ross Levin, Harris; Sens. Hoffner, Huxtable, Mantzavinos, Pettyjohn, Wilson

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

153rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 32

RECOGNIZING MAY 2025 AS "MYOSITIS AWARENESS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE.

WHEREAS, myositis is a rare and debilitating group of autoimmune diseases that cause chronic inflammation of the muscles, leading to severe muscle weakness, pain, fatigue, and disability, affecting approximately 50,000 to 75,000 people in the United States; and

WHEREAS, there are several forms of myositis, including dermatomyositis, polymyositis, necrotizing myopathy, sporadic inclusion body myositis, and juvenile myositis, all of which impact patients differently and require further research for effective treatments; and

WHEREAS, myositis is often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed due to its rarity and complexity, with studies indicating that the average time to diagnosis can be three to five years, leading to delayed treatment and increased burden on individuals affected by the disease; and

WHEREAS, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to improving outcomes for individuals affected by myositis; however, the disease remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood by both the general public and medical professionals, highlighting the need for increased awareness, education, and research to advance early detection, expand treatment options, and ultimately find a cure for myositis; and

WHEREAS, The Myositis Association (TMA) and other advocacy groups provide vital support, education, and resources for individuals living with myositis and their families, while also increasing awareness, advocating for better healthcare policies, and advancing research into the causes and treatments of myositis; and

WHEREAS, it is important to recognize the resilience and strength of those affected by myositis and to support ongoing efforts to improve their quality of life through research, awareness, and community support; and

WHEREAS, May is recognized as Myositis Awareness Month across the United States, providing an opportunity to educate the public and policymakers about this rare disease and to encourage further research and funding for treatment and support services.

NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED that the House of Representatives of the 153rd General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the Senate concurring therein, hereby designates May 2025 as Myositis Awareness Month in Delaware and encourages residents to learn more about myositis, support those affected, and promote further research into this debilitating disease.

SYNOPSIS

This resolution designates May 2025 as Myositis Awareness Month in Delaware to recognize and raise awareness of myositis, a rare neuromuscular disease. It highlights the efforts of The Myositis Association’s Proclamation 50 campaign, which seeks recognition in all 50 states. The resolution encourages public education, support for affected individuals, and further research into myositis.