June 2026: Scoliosis Awareness Month

WHEREAS, it is important to increase the public's awareness of scoliosis and help children, parents, adults, and health care providers understand, recognize, and treat the complexities of spinal deformities such as scoliosis; and,

WHEREAS, scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, with no known cause, is a condition affecting 2-3% of the population, or an estimated 7 million people in the United States. Scoliosis is a condition which strikes without regard to gender, race, age or economic status; and,

WHEREAS, scoliosis can cause chronic back pain, impact heart and lung function, and take a toll on a patient's self-esteem. With community awareness, early detection and proper treatment, people diagnosed with scoliosis can lead healthy, active lives; and,

WHEREAS, the primary age of onset for scoliosis is between ten and fifteen, with female patients being five times more likely to progress to a curve magnitude that requires treatment; and,

WHEREAS, screening programs are quick, unobtrusive, and allow for early detection and treatment opportunities which may alleviate the worst effects of the condition; and,

WHEREAS, this month is designated to raise awareness of scoliosis screening, provide support to those who are diagnosed with this condition, and to recognize the need for increased research and funding to improve treatment;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 2026 as Scoliosis Awareness Month in Michigan.