On July 12, 2016 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (WI) introduced this statement for the record on behalf of the millions of Americans affected by gastroparesis recognizing August as Gastroparesis Awareness Month. Below are her remarks.
Statement for the Record
Senator Tammy Baldwin
July 12, 2016
Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. President, I would like to bring attention to the estimated 5 million Americans suffering from gastroparesis in observance of National Gastroparesis Awareness Month in August.
Gastroparesis is a chronic medical condition in which the stomach cannot empty properly in the absence of any observable blockage. The condition can affect people of all ages, but it is four times more likely in women than men. The symptoms of gastroparesis, which include nausea, vomiting, and inability to finish a normal sized meal, can be debilitating and sometimes life threatening. The condition can lead to malnutrition, severe dehydration, and difficulty managing blood glucose levels.
While there is no cure for gastroparesis, some treatments, such as dietary measures, medications, procedures to maintain nutrition, and surgery, can help reduce symptoms. Unfortunately, gastroparesis is a poorly understood condition and so patients often suffer from delayed diagnosis, treatment and management of this disorder. As such, further research and education are needed to improve quality of life for this patient population.
I want to recognize the important efforts of the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD), an international organization based in my home state of Wisconsin, as well as other patient organizations, in providing education and support to help those affected by gastroparesis.
I urge my fellow colleagues to join me in recognizing August as Gastroparesis Awareness Month in an effort to improve our understanding and awareness of this condition, as well as support increased research for effective treatments for gastroparesis. Furthermore, I encourage the Department of Health and Human Services to recognize and include Gastroparesis Awareness Month in their list of National Health Observances.
Thank you.
To view the statement on Congress.gov click here.
