Governor Proclaims Multiple System Atrophy Awareness Month 2021

WHEREAS, Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a combination of symptoms that affect both the autonomic nervous system and movement; and

WHEREAS, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, MSA affects approximately 15,000 to 50,000 Americans, including men and women of all racial groups; and

WHEREAS, signs of MSA are likely to appear in adulthood, usually in the fifties with progressive loss of motor function, death of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord; symptoms include problems with gait, balance, and muscle coordination; control issues with bladder and bowel functions; and difficulty swallowing and breathing; and

WHEREAS, a multidisciplinary approach to MSA care includes physical, psychological, and financial support for patients and caregivers, including support groups; and

WHEREAS, while there are some medications that treat the symptoms of MSA and clinical trials for the development of improved treatment, substantially more research is needed for better management of the disease and, ultimately, a cure; and

WHEREAS, increased education and awareness are critical to ensure early, accurate diagnoses and immediate treatment of MSA, as well as to raise funds for research to develop treatment and a cure; and

WHEREAS, March has been proclaimed as Multiple System Atrophy Awareness Month among the worldwide MSA community to garner awareness and support for those individuals and their families dealing with the devastating effects of this disorder;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim March, 2021, as “MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.