Hydrocephalus affects more than a million Americans, and U.S. Rep. Leonard Lance (R-NJ) would like to see more research dollars go toward diagnosing and treating the debilitating neurological condition while also raising public awareness.
To that end, Lance recently joined U.S. Rep. Andre’ Carson (D-IN) in co-chairing the Congressional Pediatric and Adult Hydrocephalus Caucus to get the word out.
“Hydrocephalus is a tremendous public health challenge of which there is no single known cause or ways to prevent or cure the condition,” Lance said. “Education, research and communication are key tools to understand and confront Hydrocephalus, and the Congressional Hydrocephalus Caucus will be a platform for those discussions.”
Lance, who also is a member of the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, said one out of every 500 children 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,” Lance said.
September is National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month, bringing public attention to the disease and starting the discussions necessary to address its devastating effects, while also providing support to families with loved ones who suffer from it.
“I am pleased to join Rep. Lance in the launch of the Caucus in the 114th Congress,” Carson added. “Many families in my district in Indiana are affected by hydrocephalus. I look forward to working with the other caucus members and dedicated advocates to raise awareness of hydrocephalus and encourage more innovative research to improve diagnosis, treatments and cures.”