Governor Proclaims Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Awareness Day 2023

WHEREAS, tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare genetic disease that causes non-cancerous (benign) tumors to form in vital organs, including the brain, heart, kidneys, skin, liver and lungs; and

WHEREAS, an estimated 50,000 Americans and one million people worldwide have been diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis complex, a disease with no cure; and

WHEREAS, TSC is also the leading genetic cause of both epilepsy and autism; and

WHEREAS, TSC affects some people severely, and others so mildly it often goes undiagnosed; and

WHEREAS, TSC can be the result of either a random cell division error or a gene change passed down through families; and

WHEREAS, depending on where the noncancerous tumors grow and their size, they can cause severe or life-threatening complications, including too much fluid in and around the brain, heart complications, kidney damage, lung failure, increased risk of cancerous tumors, and vision damage; and

WHEREAS, the incidence of TSC is as common as Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS) or cystic fibrosis, so increased awareness is vital; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages residents to come together to promote awareness of the tuberous sclerosis complex disorder to ensure people with TSC get the best possible treatment and proper diagnosis;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2023, as “TUBEROUS SCLEROSIS COMPLEX AWARENESS DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.