[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 167 (Thursday, December 16, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2157-E2158]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    NATIONAL ALZHEIMER'S PROJECT ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. LINDA T. SANCHEZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 15, 2010

  Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ. of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
support S. 3036, the National Alzheimer's Project Act. This bill would 
provide critical federal support and coordination to overcome the 
growing Alzheimer's crisis.
  Today, the effects of Alzheimer's disease are devastating. An 
estimated 5.3 million people are living with the disease. We must act 
decisively, or the devastation of Alzheimer's disease will grow far 
worse. Alzheimer's disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the 
United States, and is the fastest growing of the 10 leading causes of 
death. In 2010, Medicare and Medicaid will spend $122 billion caring 
for people with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
  The National Alzheimer's Project Act would establish an inter-agency 
advisory council to address the government's efforts on Alzheimer's 
research, care, institutional services, and home and community-based 
programs. It would also increase awareness, support, and outreach for 
those confronted with Alzheimer's disease and for their families to 
help better equip our nation to face this disease.
  To decrease health disparities, this bill will work to ensure the 
inclusion of ethnic and racial populations who are at higher risk for 
Alzheimer's or who are less likely to receive care in clinical, 
research, and service programs.
  Legislation that advances a cure for Alzheimer's disease is near and 
dear to my heart because of my father and the millions of others like 
him who live every day with this disease.
  I urge my colleagues to support such a critical piece of legislation. 
It's a monumental step forward in our battle against Alzheimer's and 
other dementias.

[[Page E2158]]



                          ____________________