sr521_As_introduced_LC_98_0801_2.html
05 LC 98 0801
Senate Resolution 521
By: Senator Hill of the 32nd

A RESOLUTION

Encouraging all Georgians to learn about congenital heart disease and cardiovascular disease and to have regular and frequent health exams; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, congenital heart disease, or structural problems of the heart present at birth, is the most common birth defect, affecting one in 100 newborn babies; and

WHEREAS, more than two million Americans have a congenital heart defect, and it is the number one cause of death in infancy; and

WHEREAS, in America, a child is born with congenital heart disease approximately every 15 minutes; and

WHEREAS, more people die from sudden cardiac arrest each year than from breast cancer, prostate cancer, AIDS, handguns, house fires, and traffic accidents combined; and

WHEREAS, the majority of these people had no previously reported symptoms of heart disease; and

WHEREAS, cardiovascular disease is also the leading cause of adult disability as every year 1.2 million people suffer a heart attack and 700,000 people experience a stroke; and

WHEREAS, beyond the sheer loss of life, cardiovascular disease accounts for an estimated $370 billion annually in direct and indirect cost; and

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia has suffered the loss of young student athletes because of undetected heart defects; and

WHEREAS, even with the most advanced medical care available in the United States, if the population lacks the information and education for the diagnosis and treatment of these cardiovascular diseases, then the current trend will continue.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body encourage all Georgians to educate themselves about congenital heart disease and cardiovascular disease and to have regular and frequent health exams so that they can become healthier and lead more independent and productive lives.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the American Heart Association and Governor Sonny Perdue.