Washington, D.C. (April 3, 2026) – Proposed cuts to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the President’s budget could have devastating consequences for efforts to prevent, treat, and cure Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Russ Paulsen, the President and Chief Operating Officer of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, issued the following statement:

“Families who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease need more – not less – investment in NIH. These cuts would undermine hard-won progress in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other devastating diseases.

“We are at a pivotal moment in Alzheimer’s research, with further advances in diagnosis and treatment within reach. Pulling back now puts those breakthroughs at risk just as they are coming into view.

“A strong majority of Americans support federal investment in medical research—and across party lines, voters oppose cuts that would jeopardize progress against diseases like Alzheimer’s.

“For decades, sustained NIH funding has been a bipartisan commitment because the stakes are so high. That commitment must continue. Cutting funding now would mean turning our backs on millions of Americans who are depending on continued progress and hope.

“While our nation’s researchers focus on new treatments and cures, it is also imperative to continue the vital work of risk reduction by the Alzheimer’s Disease Program (ADP) at CDC. The budget proposal again would eliminate the entire Center for Chronic Disease and Health Promotion, where the ADP is based. In its final FY26 appropriations bill, Congress recognized the importance of both the Center and the Alzheimer’s Disease Program and increased funding for ADP, which we ask them to do again in FY27. 

“We urge Congress to reject these proposed cuts and protect sustained, robust funding so progress toward effective treatments—and ultimately, a cure—can continue.”

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About UsAgainstAlzheimer’s


UsAgainstAlzheimer’s is engaged in a relentless pursuit to end Alzheimer’s, the sixth leading killer in America. Our work centers on prevention, early detection and diagnosis, and equal access to treatments regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity. To achieve our mission, we give voice to patients and caregivers while partnering with government, scientists, the private sector, and allied organizations—the people who put the “Us” in UsAgainstAlzheimer’s.

Contact: Chantez Bailey, [email protected]