H.C.R. No. 178 Summary

• Designates February 3 as Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome Awareness Day in Hawaii

• Recognizes Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome (also called Topical Steroid Addiction or Red Skin Syndrome) as a severe condition causing skin flushing, inflammation, rashes, flaking, burning, and itching that can persist for months to years after topical steroid use

• Notes that 81% of affected adults and 56% of children experience anxiety or depression, and 47% of adults and 11% of children report suicidal ideation

• Identifies insufficient research and public awareness as barriers to understanding the condition, developing treatment protocols, and preventing misunderstandings between patients and healthcare providers

• Requires transmittal of a certified copy to the Governor