Glenn Thompson: “June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.…”

“June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. There is no effective treatment, no means of prevention, and no method for slowing the progression of the disease. Sadly, one in three seniors will die with the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 5.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease. By 2050 this number is projected to rise to nearly 14 million Americans. Mr. Speaker, every 65 seconds, someone in the United States develops this disease. This is unacceptable. Alzheimer's not only has a devastating impact on those who are diagnosed with the disease, but also their caregivers and loved ones. More than 16 million Americans provide unpaid care to those living with Alzheimer's and other dementias. In 2017 these caregivers provided an estimated 18.4 billion hours of care. Mr. Speaker, the time to act is now. Let's join the fight; let's take the pledge to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and to never stop searching for a cure. ____________________”