Reps. Segal, Bolger, Lisa Brown, Terry Brown, Caul, Constan, Denby, Gonzales, Hansen, Kowall, LeBlanc, Liss, Neumann, Polidori, Roberts, Rogers, Wayne Schmidt, Slavens, Smith, Tyler and Valentine offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 328.

            A resolution to declare October 15, 2010, as Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Awareness and Action Day in the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, In the United States, it is estimated that 23.6 million people or 7.8 percent of the total population are affected by diabetes; and

            Whereas, The American Diabetes Association estimates that more than half of all people with diabetes sufferer from diabetic peripheral neuropathy; and

            Whereas, Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a serious condition that damages nerve fibers due to prolonged exposure to high amounts of glucose in the bloodstream; and

            Whereas, Diabetic peripheral neuropathy often causes intense pain, frequently described as arching, tingling, and numbness of the feet, which often results in serious foot problems due to nerve damage; and

            Whereas, Diabetic peripheral neuropathy, although it can be painful, diabetic nerve damage can also lessen the ability to feel pain, heat, and cold, which means that diabetic patients may not feel a foot injury or even a stone in their shoe or a nail in their foot; and

            Whereas, The rate of amputations in people with diabetes is ten times higher than for people without diabetes. Studies show that more than 60 percent of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations are due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy; and

            Whereas, Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can occur whether a person has type I diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, or type II diabetes, which is typically adult-onset; and

            Whereas, This diabetic condition accounts for more diabetes-related hospitalizations than any other complication; and

            Whereas, It is important that individuals with diabetes be aware of the dangers and warning signs of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and make health lifestyle choices to prevent the onset of this life-changing condition; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare October 15, 2010, as Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Awareness and Action Day in the state of Michigan.