LANSING — Today, state Rep. Patrick Green (D-Warren) offered House Resolution 405 declaring October as Eczema Awareness Month in Michigan. Eczema strikes people of all ages, including babies and young children. It can result in mental health disorders such as depression and issues of self-esteem, and cause increased rates of allergies. Individuals and families with health care insurance can still pay more than $500 in out-of-pocket medication and treatments costs. Those without health insurance can pay even more. The resolution was adopted. In response, Rep. Green issued the following statement:

“Eczema affects 13 percent of all U.S. children and 10 percent of all adult U.S. citizens. When a person suffers a flare-up, it can be hard to perform even the most basic of tasks. Currently, there is no cure so it is critical we understand and educate ourselves and others about the challenges individuals with eczema face. I’m grateful to the constituents who brought this important issue to my attention, and to my colleagues for supporting this resolution and encouraging people to learn more about this disease.”