Washington, DC (January 25, 2018) - UsAgainstAlzheimer's, an innovative non-profit organization committed to stopping Alzheimer's by 2020, urges Alex Azar, newly confirmed Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make Alzheimer's a top priority. Mr. Azar was confirmed yesterday by the U.S. Senate.

"Secretary Azar will play a critical role in tackling the major challenge - embraced by HHS - of finding a means of treatment and prevention for Alzheimer's by 2025," said George Vradenburg, co-founder and Chairman of UsAgainstAlzheimer's. "We look forward to working with him to reach this important milestone as we fight for patients with policies that continue to increase our federal research investment, accelerate drug development, and pave the way for the millions of Americans who are waiting to access innovative treatments as they become available.

"More than 5 million people currently live with Alzheimer's at a cost of $259 billion a year. Without any treatment, those numbers are projected to grow significantly. By putting financial resources in place and breaking down regulatory barriers, the U.S. could lead the way in reaching a breakthrough. We are committed to working with Secretary Azar and welcome the opportunity to brief him on this urgent health challenge for HHS and the nation."

UsAgainstAlzheimer's (UsA2) works to increase the speed, efficiency and diversity of Alzheimer's clinical trials; boost attention to brain health and early detection; include insights and preferences of patients and caregivers in drug development; advance national Alzheimer's care goals and policies; and mobilize Americans to demand a cure. The organization engages those most affected by the disease - and best positioned to fight it - through its seven networks.

###

Media Contact:

Ranit Schmelzer 
202.538.1065 
[email protected]