September 17, 2025: CTX Awareness Day

WHEREAS, we recognize this day as an opportunity to increase awareness of Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis (CTX) and bring attention to how this genetic condition affects the lives of many Michiganders; and,

WHEREAS, CTX is caused by variants in the CYP27A1 gene which provides the instructions for making an enzyme needed to break down cholesterol. If this enzyme does not work properly, cholesterol accumulates in the body, affecting the eyes, tendons, brain, and other tissues; and,

WHEREAS, CTX can result in neurodevelopmental differences, chronic diarrhea, cataracts, osteoporosis, tendon xanthomas, and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease or respiratory failure; and,

WHEREAS, individuals with CTX can also experience life-altering neurological changes over time, including difficulty with coordination and balance, seizures, impaired speech, depression, and cognitive impairment; and,

WHEREAS, treatment options for individuals with CTX are limited to lifetime use of chenodeoxycholic acid replacement therapy which can help prevent disease progression but cannot reverse all previous damage that may have occurred; and,

WHEREAS, it is imperative that there be greater public awareness of this health condition, and more must be done to increase knowledge, advocacy, and support for CTX;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 17, 2025 as CTX Awareness Day in Michigan.