Greenville Reporter

On October 22, 2024, Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., announced the introduction of a bipartisan resolution with Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-MA) to designate October 23rd, 2024, as AADC Deficiency Awareness Day. This initiative aims to increase public awareness about Aromatic L-Amino Acid Decarboxylase (AADC) Deficiency.

"I am proud to introduce this resolution to bring greater awareness about AADC Deficiency," stated Congressman Greg Murphy. He emphasized the importance of recognizing this disease to support patients experiencing its symptoms and guide them toward appropriate care. "As a physician of over 30 years, I am honored to amplify awareness of AADC Deficiency in Congress and help inform the public about this rare disease."

Congressman Stephen F. Lynch expressed his continued commitment by reintroducing the resolution alongside Rep. Murphy. "Raising awareness of this rare, yet devastating, disease will help patients and families recognize their symptoms and pursue treatment," he said. He also acknowledged the efforts of the AADC Family Network for their advocacy and services for those affected by the disease.

Kelly Heger, Director of the AADC Family Network, highlighted the significance of building awareness within both the AADC community and among healthcare providers. "Building awareness is crucial - not only within the AADC community but also among healthcare providers - enabling them to identify symptoms early and deliver prompt, accurate diagnoses," she noted.

AADC Deficiency is a genetic neurological disorder affecting approximately 1 in 100,000 people in the United States. It severely impacts a patient's development, motor skills, growth, cognitive abilities, and language skills while limiting basic life functions due to a lack of dopamine production caused by an enzyme deficiency.

Patients often experience unexplained low muscle tone along with developmental delays and involuntary eye movements as some common symptoms associated with this condition.