World Alzheimer's Day

Floor Speech

WORLD ALZHEIMER'S DAY -- (Senate - September 21, 2009)

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Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, on World Alzheimer's Day, it is important that we pause to consider the devastating impact of this debilitating disease and the importance of scientific research into its causes, effects, and treatment.

More than 5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer's, and it is estimated that this number will increase to between 11.3 and 16 million by the year 2050. One in 10 individuals has a family member with the disease.

I am a proud cosponsor of S. 1492, which would increase National Institutes of Health funding for Alzheimer's research to $2 billion for fiscal year 2010 and provide grants for research designed specifically to help caregivers. This bill would establish a National Summit on Alzheimer's to examine promising research programs and raise awareness.

We must find ways to prevent this disease before it starts. The vital investments made by this bill will put us ahead of the curve, both in terms of research and increasing public understanding of the disease. On this day, when we remember those suffering from Alzheimer's disease and those who have succumbed to it, let us recommit ourselves to meet the challenge posed by this disease and do everything we can to alleviate the suffering it causes.

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