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Press Release

For Immediate Release
November 15, 2007
Contact: Sean C. Bonyun
(202) 225-3761

Upton Reaffirms Support for Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention, Treatment and Cure
Rep. strongly supports legislation increasing Alzheimer research by $16 million
November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Month

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) today reaffirmed his support for efforts to prevent, treat and cure Alzheimer’s disease, as Americans commemorate National Alzheimer’s Disease Month this November.  Upton is a strong supporter of the Labor, Health & Human Services spending bill that designates $30 billion for the National Institutes of Health – including a $16 million increase in Alzheimer research.  Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and degenerative disease of the brain that poses the most serious threat to the health and well-being of America’s seniors.  More than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to reach between 11 and 16 million by 2050. 

“Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating illness that touches all Americans, both old and young – someone is diagnosed with the disease every 72 seconds,” said Upton. “The sad reality of this disease is that over 37 million Americans know someone who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.  National Alzheimer’s Disease Month provides an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to finding a cure, and to offer support to the spouses, families and other caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s.”

Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging.  It is a brain disease that results in impaired memory, thinking and behavior.  Over the past 25 years, immense progress has been made in understanding the disease and its risk factors, but much remains to be done to delay progression of the disease, prevent it and ultimately find a cure.

“As America observes National Alzheimer’s Disease Month, I hope that policymakers and the public will develop a better understanding of the toll this disease takes on people with Alzheimer’s and on those who care for them,” said Upton.  “We must continue to support funding for Alzheimer’s disease research and continue to build an environment ripe for new discoveries.”

Throughout November, organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association sponsor events for families, caregivers and the public.  To find out about National Alzheimer’s Disease Month events planned in Southwest Michigan, visit the Alzheimer’s Association’s Website at http://www.alz.org. 

National Alzheimer’s Disease Month traces its origins to November 1983 when then-President Ronald Reagan, who was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, first signed a proclamation calling the nation’s attention to this disease.  This event marked the beginning of greater advocacy for increased awareness and understanding of Alzheimer’s disease.  National Alzheimer’s Disease Month is observed annually.

The Alzheimer’s Association operates a 24 hour helpline for anyone who may need assistance – 1-800-272-3900.

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