The House of Representatives of the 136th General Assembly of Ohio has adopted a resolution recognizing March 2025 as Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Awareness Month. MSA, a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder formerly known as Shy-Drager Syndrome, presents various debilitating symptoms such as balance impairments, movement difficulties, and bladder dysfunction, significantly affecting patients' quality of life. The resolution highlights the challenges of diagnosing MSA, as its symptoms often overlap with other neurodegenerative diseases, leading to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment options.
Since its designation in 2013 by the 129th General Assembly, Multiple System Atrophy Awareness Month has played a crucial role in raising public awareness and understanding of this condition in Ohio. The resolution commends the efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to bringing attention to MSA and acknowledges the importance of community support in addressing the needs of those affected by this progressive neurological disease. The resolution will be disseminated to Ohio's news media to further promote awareness.