Calls for dual investments in scientific research and public health infrastructure to
make progress in brain health equity

Washington, D.C. (April 9, 2021) - UsAgainstAlzheimer’s issued the following statement applauding the Biden Administration proposal for a new Advanced Research Projects Agency – Health (ARPA-H) and investments in public health. The proposal is contained in the Administration’s proposed “skinny budget” for Fiscal Year 2022.

“ARPA-H is the kind of bold idea our nation needs to develop the transformational therapies and technologies required to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

“ARPA-H would launch and manage large-scale health-research initiatives. It would have the ability to better focus on uncertain but potentially breakthrough medical technologies and therapies that tend to be underfunded today, and to help accelerate the pace of progress needed to reach the national goal of effectively treating and preventing Alzheimer’s by 2025.

“Effective treatments and more steps to prevent the disease would bring relief to millions of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease, their caregivers, and loved ones – particularly to communities of color that are disproportionately impacted by the disease. UsA2 is committed to supporting efforts to develop ARPA-H, as well as to continuing our strong support for a $289 million increase for Alzheimer’s research funding at the National Institutes of Health.

“Alzheimer’s is a public health crisis and deserves a well-resourced public health response. We are encouraged that the Biden Administration is serious about strengthening our nation’s public health infrastructure, including in efforts to address the social determinants of health. These conditions can have a profound effect on a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Research from UsA2 has found that socioeconomic conditions among Blacks and Latinos are generally worse in counties highly impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

“We urge Congress to act on this request, including $20 million for the CDC to continue BOLD Act implementation and a $500,000 increase for the CDC Healthy Brain Initiative road map for state and national partnerships.

“Dual investments in scientific research and public health infrastructure are required in order to make needed progress in driving brain health equity.”

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About UsAgainstAlzheimer’s

UsAgainstAlzheimer’s exists to conquer Alzheimer’s disease. We take on the toughest problems; bring all of “Us” together to break down barriers; advocate for research that will speed treatments to market; and drive changes that matter most to people living with the disease. We will not rest until brain-span equals lifespan - for everyone.