Virginia Governor Ralph S. Northam

WHEREAS, sarcoidosis is the growth of inflammatory cells on various parts of the body, most commonly on the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes, and skin; and

WHEREAS, sarcoidosis affects nearly 200,000 people in the United States; and 

WHEREAS, sarcoidosis is most common among adults between the ages of 20 and 40, with women and African Americans having a higher chance of contracting the disease; and

WHEREAS, the signs and symptoms of sarcoidosis vary widely depending on the person and organs affected and can include fatigue, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and weight loss; and

WHEREAS, research suggests the cause of sarcoidosis is a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but the exact cause and progression of the disease is still unknown; and

WHEREAS, the numerous diagnostic tests and ongoing clinical observation and/or management are costly; and

WHEREAS, there is no known cure to slow or halt the progression of chronic cases; and 

WHEREAS, volunteers, researchers, caregivers, and medical professionals are working to improve the quality of life and prognosis of persons living with sarcoidosis and their families; and

WHEREAS, Sarcoidosis Awareness Month aims to generate public understanding, support, and compassion for those suffering from the disease;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ralph S. Northam, do hereby recognize April 2019 as SARCOIDOSIS AWARENESS MONTH in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.