October 30, 2019: Hypophosphatasia Awareness Day

WHEREAS, Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is considered a rare, progressive metabolic bone disease that affects the development of the skeleton and teeth; and,  

WHEREAS, defective mineralization of the bone and teeth is caused by low enzyme activity of serum and bone alkaline phosphatase; and,

WHEREAS, there are six clinical forms of HPP that are classified according to the timing and severity of symptoms, and severity is widely variable and can range from stillbirth and skeletal deformities to stress fractures and tooth loss in adulthood; and,

WHEREAS, HPP is an inherited disorder that can be autosomal recessive or autosomal dominant and is caused by variants in the ALP gene; and,

 

WHEREAS, HPP occurs among all ethnic groups, affecting both males and females with progressive and debilitating symptoms that have a significant impact on the lives of those affected, beginning prenatally through adulthood; and,

WHEREAS, individuals and families affected by HPP often experience problems such as diagnosis delay, difficulty finding medical experts, and lack of access to treatment; and,

WHEREAS, there is no cure for HPP and treatment is multidisciplinary and includes enzyme replacement therapy, bone marrow transplant, respiratory support, dental care, pain management, psychological support, and more; and,

 

WHEREAS, awareness of HPP will hopefully encourage and support the development of more research for a cure and assistance for patients, leading to a global collaboration of efforts; and,

 

WHEREAS, focused foundations and individuals living with HPP have organized a global day of awareness for Oct 30, 2019, in which patient caregivers, medical professionals, researchers, and others will participate in this observance;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 30, 2019, as Hypophosphatasia Awareness Day in Michigan.