October 01, 2013

Today's Top Alzheimer's News

Stress linked to Alzheimer's, Lilly disappointed in Amyvid decision, the high cost of Alzheimer's, and Rep. Fattah introduces House resolution recognizing World Alzheimer's Month (read more). 
 
 

Must reads

  • A September 30, 2013 Bloomberg article reported on the link between midlife stress and Alzheimer's. According to the article, "Psychological stress was associated with a 21 percent greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study of 800 Swedish women born between 1914 and 1930 who underwent neuropsychiatric tests periodically between 1968 and 2005. The research, led by Lena Johansson at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg was published today in the journal BMJ Open."
  • A September 30, 2013 Reuters article reported that "Eli Lilly and Co on Monday said the federal government has unfairly blocked patient access to its Amyvid diagnostic test for Alzheimer's disease by denying reimbursement for such products, and said a requested new study of the test could create additional delay." According to the article, "Lilly said the decision denies appropriate patient access to the test, and conflicts with the National Alzheimer's Plan, a sweeping effort to find an effective way to prevent or treat Alzheimer's by 2025 and improve care of those already inflicted."
  • A September 30, 2013 USA Today opinion piece by Representatives Eric Cantor and Lamar Smith advocated for a new approach to science funding in the US. According to the authors, "Despite the U.S. government's spending more on research and development than any other country, American pre-eminence in several science and technology fields is slipping. The Chinese now have the fastest supercomputer. High-energy physicists look to research conducted in Europe more than America. And NASA astronauts hitch rides to the Space Station on board Russian spacecraft.To remain globally competitive, we need to make sure our priorities are funded and that the money is being used wisely." Rep. Lamar Smith, Texas Republican is chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee. Rep. Eric Cantor, Virginia Republican, is the majority leader of the U.S. House of Representatives.
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