Event In Mass. Brings Attention To Rare Diseases
BOSTON (AP) - An event planned for the Statehouse is intended to bring attention to people suffering from lesser-known diseases and the researchers who are trying to find cures.
Gov. Deval Patrick signed a proclamation designating Monday as Rare Disease Day in Massachusetts.
MassBio, a group that represents the biotech industry, says nearly 30 million Americans suffer from little-known but serious diseases, making it a major public health issue in the U.S.
Patient advocacy groups and biopharmaceutical companies will be among those attending Monday's event. The speakers will include a representative of a foundation that helps victims of Schwachman Diamond Syndrome, a rare pancreatic disorder in children that makes it difficult for victims to digest food.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
