Alzheimer’s Disease: A Growing Concern and the Need for Action

It’s a reality that nearly every family in America has been touched by Alzheimer’s disease in some way, including mine. This issue transcends demographics, income levels, and political backgrounds.

Currently, over 7 million people in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s, and countless others are caring for them as they struggle with their daily lives. The perception that cognitive decline is just a natural part of aging has shifted, thanks to significant advances in science. We’re now at a point where early intervention could not only help but possibly prevent Alzheimer’s altogether.

However, it’s disheartening that public policy hasn’t kept pace with these scientific developments. President Trump and Congress now have a unique chance to make a meaningful change with the newly proposed Alzheimer’s Disease Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act.

This bipartisan bill was introduced in November by several representatives, including Florida Republican Rep. Vern Buchanan and New York Democratic Rep. Paul Tonko, as well as Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins and Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto. The ASAP Act aims to revamp how Medicare assesses and utilizes new diagnostic technologies. It would empower the Secretary of Health and Human Services to extend Medicare coverage for FDA-approved blood tests that help in the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Why is this law so crucial? Right now, Medicare is limited to covering preventive services that have either been specifically authorized by Congress or recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a process that can take years and puts patients at risk of losing precious time. The ASAP Act seeks to change this outdated system, providing timely access to essential tests for older adults.

Science is continually making strides against Alzheimer’s. Currently, there are two FDA-approved treatments that have been shown to slow the early progression of the disease by focusing on amyloid plaque. Additionally, the use of blood biomarker tests is already aiding in the diagnosis for many patients.

Public sentiment is strongly in favor of policies like the ASAP Act. A national poll conducted by pollsters associated with Trump revealed that 92% of voters support a national strategy to combat Alzheimer’s. Almost nine out of ten are in favor of directing Medicare to adopt innovative diagnostic and treatment options. Notably, Republican voters in key districts had a significant advantage on this issue. Now, the ASAP Act presents a pivotal moment for Congress and Trump.

Engaging with this issue could serve as a point of unity for the Republican Party, which is something it could certainly use right now. “Make America Healthy Again” is a slogan from the Trump era, and tackling Alzheimer’s is a common ground issue that could help realize that goal.

The stakes are undoubtedly high. Alzheimer’s costs American families over $360 billion each year. With so many folks feeling financial pressure, we should take every action possible to alleviate this burden.

Moreover, the government could see benefits too. Early diagnosis allows families to prepare sooner, access treatments earlier, and ultimately cut long-term costs associated with Medicaid and Medicare.

Mr. Trump has prioritized cutting through bureaucratic red tape. By passing the ASAP Act, he could extend that mission to one of the most pressing public health challenges we face today. I genuinely hope he and other leaders in Washington will take this step. Progress in combating Alzheimer’s is in the best interest of all Americans.