Assembly Resolution No. 507

BY: M. of A. Malliotakis

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to declare
September 2017, as Chronic Pain Awareness Month

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official months that are set aside to increase awareness of serious
issues that affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to declare September 2017, as
Chronic Pain Awareness Month in the State of New York, in conjunction
with the observance of National Chronic Pain Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, Pain is a major public health problem for children and
adults and is the number one reason Americans seek medical care; and

WHEREAS, The Institute of Medicine has found that 100 million
Americans live with chronic pain as a result of serious illnesses and
injuries; and

WHEREAS, As many as 20% of children in the United States have
chronic pain, which is pain that is persistent or recurring frequently
for more than three months; and

WHEREAS, Chronic pain costs the nation an estimated $560 to $630
billion annually in medical expenses, lost wages and lost productivity;
and

WHEREAS, Pain negatively impacts almost every aspect of a person's
life including the ability to work, sleep and engage in social
activities as well as adversely impacts pain sufferers' families and
caregivers; and

WHEREAS, The U.S. Pain Foundation's mission is to inform, empower
and advocate on behalf of over 36,000 members throughout the country and
all those who live with chronic pain; and

WHEREAS, The U.S. Pain Foundation provides education on pain
management skills and constructive ways to cope with chronic pain and
find fulfillment in life; and

WHEREAS, Increased awareness about the effects of chronic pain
results in better outcomes, increased access to good pain care and
empowerment and validation for those living with pain; now, therefore,
be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to declare September 2017, as
Chronic Pain Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.