Alzheimer’s Research Receives More Funding

With as many as 5.1 million Americans currently suffering from Alzheimer’s, as well as a projected 13.2 million Alzheimer’s patients by 2050, the federal government has devoted new funding for research. In January 2011, President Obama signed the National Alzheimer’s Project Act, a statute that addresses the medical and social complications connected with the disorder. The new law calls for a synchronized and aggressive nationwide Alzheimer’s disease plan of action to accomplish five goals: prevent and effectively treat Alzheimer’s disease by 2025; enhance care quality and efficiency; expand patient and family support; enhance public awareness and engagement; and improve data to track progress. The law also establishes an Advisory Council on Alzheimer’s Research, Care and Services, which assembles some of the country’s leading authorities on Alzheimer’s disease to advise on the progression of the national plan.

In February, President Obama committed even more funds for Alzheimer’s disease research. This includes making $50 million available now for innovative Alzheimer’s research and increasing funding by $80 million in the 2013 fiscal year budget. Included in the $130 million total investment (which is more than 25 percent more than the current annual Alzheimer’s research investment) is $26 million for “caregiver support, provider education, public awareness” and the enhancement of data organization.