H.Res. 20: Expressing support for the goals and ideals of “National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month”.

Whereas hydrocephalus, an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, is a life-threatening condition that affects approximately 1,000,000 Americans of all ages;

Whereas, each year, one in 770 babies develops hydrocephalus;

Whereas hospitalization charges for pediatric hydrocephalus cases alone cost the United States health care system $2,000,000,000 per year;

Whereas adults living with hydrocephalus add exponentially to health care system costs, as well as costs related to reduced productivity in the workplace;

Whereas the incidence of undiagnosed and untreated hydrocephalus in older Americans can result in unnecessary confinement to assisted living facilities and nursing homes;

Whereas up to two-thirds (24,000 potential cases) of our current and former military servicemembers suffering from moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries are at risk of developing hydrocephalus;

Whereas many individuals with hydrocephalus live with other serious medical comorbidities, particularly seniors who have Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, putting them at a higher risk for severe illness from COVID–19;

Whereas there is no cure for this condition, and the only treatment is costly brain surgery which frequently must be repeated to replace the shunt, a medical device that is the most common treatment for the condition and has one of the highest failure rates of all medical devices;

Whereas various research studies are currently being conducted in the United States in order to better understand, prevent, and treat hydrocephalus;

Whereas organizations, such as the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation and the Hydrocephalus Association, serve as global leaders for hydrocephalus awareness, education, support, advocacy, and research funding;

Whereas the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation established National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month in 2009; and

Whereas the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation and the Hydrocephalus Association recognize September as National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month: Now, therefore, be it