William Tauzin: “I rise in support of H.Con.Res. 271, which expresses the support of Congress for activities to increase public awareness…”

“I rise in support of H.Con.Res. 271, which expresses the support of Congress for activities to increase public awareness of multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling, disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or they can be terribly severe, like paralysis or loss of vision. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, but the unpredictable physical and emotional threats can be lifelong. The progress, severity, and specific symptoms of MS for any person cannot yet be predicted; but advances in research and treatment are giving hope to those who have been afflicted by the disease. Thanks to the dedication of Congress over the last 6 years in doubling the budget of the NIH, many advances have been made in the war against MS. Major gains have been made in recognizing and defining the role of the system in the development of MS lesions, giving scientists the ability to devise ways to alter the immune response.”