Scoliosis Awareness Month
Effective Date: Friday, June 1st, 2012
WHEREAS, scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, is a condition affecting an estimated seven million people in the United States; and
WHEREAS, the primary age of onset for scoliosis is between 10 and 15, with females being five times more likely to progress to a curve magnitude that requires treatment; and
WHEREAS, an estimated one million scoliosis patients utilize health care yearly, with approximately one of every six children being diagnosed and eventually required to receive active medical treatment; and
WHEREAS, screening programs allow for early detection and treatment opportunities which may alleviate the worst effects of the condition; and
WHEREAS, increased public awareness of scoliosis is vital as we work to help children, adults, families, and health care providers understand, recognize, and treat the complexities of spinal deformities such as scoliosis.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim June 2012 as:
Scoliosis Awareness Month
in Alaska, and encourage Alaskans to support those affected by scoliosis, and to promote annual health care visits to ensure screening for scoliosis.
Dated: May 31, 2012
