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