State health and aging officials are using September to sound the alarm on sepsis -- a life-threatening condition that kills more Americans each year than breast cancer, prostate cancer, and opioid overdoses combined.

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and Department of Health (NYSDOH) are teaming up to raise awareness, especially among older adults who face a higher risk. Governor Kathy Hochul has issued a proclamation recognizing Sepsis Awareness Month statewide.

Sepsis is the body's extreme response to an infection. It can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death -- often quickly. While it's a leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals, 90% of sepsis cases start in the community.

"Sepsis can be deadly and does not discriminate by age," said NYSOFA Director Greg Olsen. "It's vital to know the signs and symptoms."

Common signs of sepsis include:

Those most at risk include people over 65, children under 1, and anyone with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems.

New York has led the nation in sepsis prevention since enacting Rory's Regulations in response to the death of 12-year-old Rory Staunton in 2012. These rules require hospitals to follow strict protocols for early detection and treatment of sepsis. From 2015 to 2019, the effort helped save more than 16,000 lives.

Groups like END SEPSIS, founded by Rory's parents, and the Sepsis Alliance are working alongside state agencies to provide education and free resources -- including translated materials for older adults and caregivers.

"Real change is finally happening -- and it will take all of us to make it a reality," said Rory's parents, Ciaran and Orlaith Staunton.