Neighbor News
Support Increased NIH Funding for Alzheimer’s Research
Increased NIH funding to combat Alzheimer's would support groundbreaking research and reduce the economic and emotional burden worldwide.
My grandfather, a wise and resilient entrepreneur, shared captivating stories during my visits to India which left a lasting impression on me. His experience with Alzheimer’s highlighted the deep challenges faced by individuals and their families. As his condition advanced, it felt like I was losing both a cherished link to my heritage and a best friend. Like my grandfather, Alzheimer’s affects nearly 7 million Americans today. Absent funded research necessary for medical breakthroughs, that number is expected to double by 2050.
The costs of inaction are staggering. In California, Medicaid spending on Alzheimer’s care alone exceeds $4 billion. The impact goes beyond those directly affected, as caregivers in the state sacrifice nearly 2 billion hours of paid work. Alzheimer’s currently stands as the second leading cause of death in California.
However, thanks to leaders like Anna Eshoo who championed Alzheimer’s research funding during her time in Congress, we’ve made tremendous progress. Over the past decade, federal investment in Alzheimer’s research has fueled scientific advances and given families like mine a sense of hope. Now, Congressman Sam Liccardo has the opportunity to continue that momentum by supporting a $318 million increase in funding for Alzheimer’s research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as part of the FY25 reconciliation bill.
Find out what's happening in Saratogafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
This funding will empower scientists to explore ways to reduce risk, uncover biomarkers for early diagnosis, and advance the search for effective treatments. It’s an investment that not only supports the millions living with Alzheimer’s but also helps reduce the long-term economic burden on families and healthcare systems.
Join me and the Alzheimer’s Association in leading the fight to end Alzheimer’s by directly supporting this funding increase. Together, we can drive progress toward a cure. Please urge Congressman Liccardo and our U.S. Senators to invest in Alzheimer's research and the dementia public health infrastructure by taking action here.
