October 18, 2002

Washington, D.C. — The Senate late last night unanimously passed legislation authored by Senators Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) and Rick Santorum (R-Penn.) to support federal prevention and treatment efforts and raise awareness of Lyme disease.

"Lyme disease may be spread by tiny ticks but it has a large and devastating impact on its victims," said Dodd. "It's absolutely essential we do every thing in our power to reach out and assist those already grappling with this insidious disease, increase resources for research, and ultimately ensure that we work to prevent future infections. This bill is a step in the right direction."

The legislation would establish a five-year Lyme disease initiative to improve detection, prevention, and surveillance efforts as well as educate the public and physicians about the disease. The legislation would promote patient involvement in the battle against Lyme disease at the federal level by establishing an advisory committee made up of both public and federal members. Additionally, the primary federal agencies involved in Lyme disease research and education would be required to improve the ways in which they share information, streamlining the process and allowing the best use of resources.

Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness which can cause facial paralysis, joint swelling, liver malfunction, irregular heartbeat and memory loss. In 1998, 16,801 Americans contracted Lyme disease, a 70 percent increase since 1992. In 1982, only 500 cases were reported. Costs for long-term treatment can exceed $100,000 per person.

Connecticut residents are 10 times more likely to contract the disease than anywhere else in the nation. In 1999, more than 3,200 cases were reported in Connecticut. The disease was named for the town of Old Lyme, Connecticut, where it first achieved prominence.

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