Designates September of each year as "Chiari Malformation-Syringomyelia Awareness Month."
Impact
By promoting awareness of CM and SM, AJR58 seeks to educate citizens about the challenges faced by those with these conditions. With CM affecting approximately one in 1,200 people and being more common in women, increased understanding is essential. Symptoms can greatly affect the quality of life, leading to severe pain and difficulties in daily activities. The establishment of an awareness month is intended to foster public recognition and conversations around these medical conditions, ultimately aiming to improve patient care and support within the community.
Summary
Assembly Joint Resolution 58 (AJR58) proposes to designate September of each year as 'Chiari Malformation-Syringomyelia Awareness Month' in New Jersey. This resolution aims to raise awareness about Chiari Malformation (CM) and Syringomyelia (SM), two conditions that have significant neurological implications. The primary objective is to inform the public, medical professionals, and lawmakers about the nature of these disorders, their symptoms, and the importance of reasonable accommodations for those affected.
Contention
Supporters of AJR58 argue that highlighting Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia can lead to better medical understanding and resources devoted to these rarely discussed conditions. Advocates emphasize the need for increased awareness to ensure that affected individuals receive appropriate medical attention and societal support. While the resolution is largely uncontroversial, some may view it as a minor legislative gesture, concerned that it does not always translate into the actionable changes needed for better healthcare or resources for patients with these conditions.
Designates month of September each year as "Deaf Awareness Month" in New Jersey; designates last full week of September each year as "Deaf Awareness Week" in New Jersey.