CHICAGO – Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs in the body— most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. This disease affects thousands of people in the U.S., and legislation sponsored by State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) to raise awareness of this disease was signed into law Friday.

“Though this disease is rare, it is crucial that we are more knowledgeable about it and how it affects our bodies,” Hunter said. “Sarcoidosis can sometimes lead to death and therefore must be taken seriously.”

House Bill 590 dedicates each April to promote the awareness of Sarcoidosis disease and treatment.

According to the Department of Public Health, Sarcoidosis often occurs in adults between 20 - 40 years of age, with women being diagnosed more frequently than men.

The disease is at least 10 times more common in African-Americans than in caucasians. People of Scandinavian, German, Irish, or Puerto Rican origin are also more prone to the disease.

The exact cause of sarcoidosis is not known. Some researchers and health care professionals believe it maybe a type of autoimmune disease associated with an abnormal immune response, but what triggers this response remains uncertain.

“It is important to be in tune with your body and always put your health first,” Hunter said. “Symptoms can range from mood swings to high blood pressure. Health professionals recommend that those who are diagnosed with Sarcoidosis have frequent checkups to monitor the illness and adjust treatment if necessary.”

This measure goes into effect in January 2022.