Earlier this year, Reps. Pat Tiberi (R-Ohio) and Richard Neal (D-Mass.) introduced a resolution, H. Res. 522, which would designate September 2014 as “National Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month.” A similar resolution, S. Res. 353, was introduced by Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.).
Nearly 6 million Americans have a brain aneurysm, and each year, approximately 30,000 experience a ruptured brain aneurysm. Sadly, 40 percent of patients suffering from a ruptured aneurysm die. This number could be decreased significantly with timely and appropriate treatment. If adopted, H. Res. 522 would bring crucial understanding to this issue and help to raise awareness of brain aneurysms, methods of early detection, and treatment options.
Since neurosurgeons play a crucial role in the treatment of brain aneurysms, the AANS and CNS have endorsed these resolutions. Furthermore, we are encouraging individuals to urge their elected officials to co-sponsor this initiative. Click here to access a congressional directory of U.S. House and Senate members and help us raise awareness about this devastating disease.
