Recognizing September as Hydrocephalus Awareness Month

Floor Speech

Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize September as National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month. For too long, little attention has been paid to hydrocephalus.

This condition can occur at any age and affects an estimated one million Americans.

In fact, one out of every 500 babies in the United States is born with hydrocephalus, making the condition the leading cause of brain surgery in children. Additionally, an increasing number of our veterans are developing post-traumatic hydrocephalus as a result of brain injuries suffered on the battlefield.

Currently, there is no single known cause of hydrocephalus or ways to prevent or cure the condition.

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is currently conducting research related to hydrocephalus prevention and treatment. However, more must be done at the community level to educate the American people about this surprisingly prevalent disorder.

Recognizing the month of September as National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month will bring this disease to the public's attention and, I believe, will encourage the discussions necessary to address more effectively the devastating effects of this disease and provide support to families who live with it every day.

Today I commend the hard work of the Michael and Kim Illions of Woodbridge, New Jersey for their advocacy on behalf of their son, Cole.

I am certain that with federal support for additional research we can develop a better treatment, and eventually a cure, for those suffering from hydrocephalus and help them live healthier, fuller lives.

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