Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (CA-39) released the following statement Tuesday after the Obama administration announced the introduction of the first national strategy to end Alzheimer's disease.The National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease has set a goal of developing effective prevention and treatment for Alzheimer's disease and other related dementias by the year 2025. "This announcement offers renewed hope to the millions of Americans suffering from Alzheimer's disease.," Sanchez said. "I applaud the President Obama and Secretary Sebelius for their continued commitment to fight this devastating disease and for their work to support research, provide education and raise public awareness. "Like more than 5 million Americans, my father suffers from this debilitating illness. I know first-hand the pain and hardship Alzheimer's inflicts on families. That's why I am very pleased this plan provides families and caregivers the resources and services necessary to help cope with the physical, emotional, and financial costs of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease." The National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease was authorized in the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA), which President Obama signed into law in January 2011. The National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease outlines five goals, including research, training for healthcare providers, easier access to information and resources for caregivers, and an awareness campaign to reach family members and patients in need of information on the disease. Alzheimer's disease affects more than 5.1 million Americans and is the sixth (6th) leading cause of the death in the United States.

********** Published: May 31, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 07