July 24, 2013

Today's Top Alzheimer's News

George Vradenburg pushes for strategic investments in Alzheimer's research, the power of early diagnosis, and the importance of biomedical research (read more). 

Must Reads

  • A July 24, 2013 Huffington Post opinion piece by USA2 co-founder George Vradenburg advocated for increased Alzheimer's research funding. According to Vradenburg, "If the U.S. can make the needed strategic investments in Alzheimer's research today, it will pave the way not only for its own fiscal and economic health, but also for that of other nations. Consequently, it will further establish itself as a leader in the largest unaddressed global health issue of the 21st century."
  • A July 24, 2013 Hill opinion piece by Gregory Sorensen, CEO of Siemens Healthcare, highlighted the role of early diagnosis and the power of "knowing." According to Sorensen, "Sometimes, the value of knowing doesn’t lead to cures, but can improve patient well-being, as with Alzheimer’s disease. Studies show that older Americans who receive early Alzheimer’s diagnoses can actively participate in decisions about their future, while better avoiding accidents and falls. A new imaging test can pinpoint the presence of a plaque linked with Alzheimer’s. Not every person with this plaque has Alzheimer’s, but its absence can allow it to be ruled out, potentially leading to other treatable causes.  With Alzheimer’s cases expected to triple by 2050, should this test be covered?...For years, predictive genetic testing has tantalized us with the possibility of knowing more about ourselves, through our DNA. The Supreme Court just opened a new door to that genetic future. It’s up to us to decide how often—and to what extent—the value of knowing is worth the value of paying for it."
  • A July 23, 2013 Seattle Times opinion piece by Abigail Schindler, postdoctoral fellow at University of Washington, advocated for increased investment in biomedical research. According to Schindler, "Everyone is affected. These cuts will impact all future medical advances in human health such as Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, depression, heart disease and other debilitating diseases that touch each of us and the ones we love…Fortunately, Washingtonians are represented by strong supporters of biomedical research and the NIH. U.S. Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and U.S. Rep. Jim McDermott, all Democrats, will provide voices of reason. For the sake of America’s future leadership in biomedical research and the health of our nation, I urge all members of Congress to work together to find a fair and balanced approach to deficit reduction that replaces the sequestration and preserves NIH funding."