A senate RESOLUTION

TO RECOGNIZE May 5-11, 2024 AS "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.

Whereas, many people living with serious mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, or gastrointestinal disorders including gastroparesis, upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting may be treated with medications that work as dopamine receptor blocking agents, including antipsychotics and antiemetics; and

Whereas, while ongoing treatment with these medications can be necessary, prolonged use is associated with tardive dyskinesia (TD), an involuntary movement disorder that is characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal, and repetitive movements of the face, torso, limbs, and fingers or toes; and

Whereas, it is vital that people be aware of TD because even mild symptoms can impact people physically, socially, and emotionally; and

Whereas, TD affects approximately six hundred thousand people in the United States, and approximately sixty-five percent of people with TD have not been diagnosed, making it important to raise awareness about the symptoms; and

Whereas, it is important that people taking these medications be monitored for TD by a healthcare provider. Regular screening for TD is recommended by the American Psychiatric Association; and

Whereas, clinical research has led to approval of treatments for adults with TD by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and recognition and treatment of TD can make a positive impact in the lives of many people experiencing psychotic and mood disorders; and

Whereas, the South Carolina legislature can raise awareness of TD among the public and medical community.  Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize May 5-11, 2024 as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" in South Carolina.

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