U.S. Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-IL), chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust, today issued the following statement in recognition of National Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month.
“This June, we recognize Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month to promote awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Alzheimer’s affects 5.3 million Americans, with African Americans being twice as likely to develop late-onset Alzheimer’s as whites. Africans Americans are also less likely to receive a proper Alzheimer’s diagnosis, resulting in treatment delays.
As a result of the National Alzheimer’s Project Act, signed by President Obama in 2011, a strategic research framework has been established and new drugs are under development to target the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s, a disease that costs the United States $172 billion annually. Further research progress is also being made to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the brain, including Alzheimer’s.
As Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus’ Health Braintrust, I’m working with Congress and stakeholders to raise awareness of brain disorders and support research on effective treatments and prevention strategies to combat Alzheimer’s.”