WHEREAS, Spina bifida can be diagnosed in prenatal tests and
screenings, but, in some cases, might not be diagnosed until
after the baby is born; and
WHEREAS, Studies have shown that women who add folic acid
into their diets significantly reduce the risk of having a child
with spina bifida; and
WHEREAS, It is therefore recommended that women who are
pregnant or could get pregnant consume 400 micrograms of folic
acid daily; and
WHEREAS, There is no cure for spina bifida, and babies with
this condition often undergo surgery either in the womb or
shortly after birth to close the defect and minimize the risk of
infection; and
WHEREAS, Each person with spina bifida faces many different
challenges and may require different treatments; and
WHEREAS, With help, children born with spina bifida can lead
very active and full lives; and
WHEREAS, The Spina Bifida Association actively engages in
advocacy and education efforts to raise national awareness of
spina bifida and enhance the lives of children and adults
affected by this birth defect; and
WHEREAS, "Spina Bifida Awareness Month" increases public
awareness of this birth defect, acknowledges initiatives to
further understand this condition and celebrates the 166,000
Americans who live with the challenges of spina bifida;
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the
month of October 2023 as "Spina Bifida Awareness Month" in
Pennsylvania.
20230HR0195PN1953 - 2 -
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