June 2024: Scoliosis Awareness Month

WHEREAS, it is important to increase the public’s awareness of scoliosis and help children, parents, adults, and health care providers understand, recognize, and treat the complexities of spinal conditions such as scoliosis; and,

WHEREAS, scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, is a condition affecting an estimated 2-3% of the population, or an estimated 7 million people in the United States, and can strike regardless of gender, race, age, or economic status; and,

WHEREAS, scoliosis can cause chronic back pain, impact heart and lung function, and take a toll on a patient’s self-esteem. With community awareness, early detection, and proper treatment, people diagnosed with scoliosis can minimize the impact of this condition and lead healthy, active lives; and,

WHEREAS, scoliosis patients make more than 600,000 visits to health providers yearly, with approximately 30% of patients requiring bracing and 10% requiring surgery; and,

WHEREAS, the primary age of onset for scoliosis is between 10 and 15 years old, with females being up to eight times more likely to progress to a curve magnitude that would require treatment; and,

WHEREAS, screening programs are quick, unobtrusive, and allow for early detection and treatment opportunities which may alleviate the worst effects of the condition; and,

WHEREAS, this month is designated to raise awareness of scoliosis screening, provide support to those who are diagnosed with this condition, and recognize the need for increased research and funding to improve treatment;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 2024 as Scoliosis Awareness Month in Michigan.