Patrick Kennedy: “today I rise to acknowledge Brain Awareness Week, which reminds us that neuroscience research is critical to the health…”

“today I rise to acknowledge Brain Awareness Week, which reminds us that neuroscience research is critical to the health of U.S. global competitiveness and much of this research is done by the National Institutes of Health. As Members of Congress, many of us from both sides of the aisle make a commitment to doubling the NIH budget, and many of us now wonder what do we get for what we paid for. Some are asking this and I have asked them to look at www.SFN.org, which stands for the Society of Neuroscience which has produced 24 separate brain research success stories. Behind me here you see some of the incredible technology that is giving rise to research in the brain by helping us through PET scans and FMRIs, looking into the brain as we have never been able to do before. These discoveries have allowed us to develop treatments that reduce the severity of symptoms for those suffering from Parkinson's, those suffering from affective disorders. We have seen a whole new class of anti-depressants that produce fewer sides effects than their predecessors. We have also seen great breakthroughs in the identification of new stroke treatment and prevention methods, and we have seen the creation of ways to help prevent epileptic seizures, as well as expansion of treatments for psychotic symptoms and schizophrenia. Research brings hope and improves the lives of millions of Americans.…”