Food Allergy Awareness Day
WHEREAS, food allergies affect some twelve million Americans and cause an estimated 203,000 emergency room visits each year; and
WHEREAS, according to a study conducted by researchers at Northwestern University, approximately eight percent of children suffer from severe, life-threatening food allergies; and
WHEREAS, every three minutes someone is rushed to the emergency room because of a food allergy reaction; and
WHEREAS, the overall economic burden of food allergies and anaphylaxis has been calculated as at least half a billion dollars annually; and
WHEREAS, severe food allergies disqualify individuals from military service eligibility; and the growing incidence of food allergies could significantly decrease the pool of qualified candidates to serve our armed forces; and
WHEREAS, there is currently no cure or preventative medication for food allergies, and strict avoidance is the only method of impeding a reaction; and
WHEREAS, medical experts agree that a cure is within reach based upon ongoing research and innovations:
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim November 3, 2011, as
Food Allergy Awareness Day
in the State of the Alabama.
Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 1st day of November 2011.
Governor Robert Bentley
Provided by the Office of the Governor of Alabama | governor.alabama.gov