Blood tests can now detect Alzheimer’s biomarkers earlier than ever

June 11, 2026

Dear Editor,

More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, including 103,600 in Alabama. That is why Congress must act now to support early detection and prevention. Blood tests can now detect Alzheimer’s biomarkers earlier than ever, but current law prevents Medicare from covering them. Early detection gives families more time to begin treatment, make care decisions, and create more meaningful memories.

Last week, I joined advocates in Washington, D.C., for the 2026 AIM Advocacy Forum and met with Representative Terri Sewell’s staff to urge support for the Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act. This bipartisan bill would give Medicare the authority to cover early Alzheimer’s detection through its existing evidence-based process.

I appreciate Representative Sewell’s staff for hearing from Alabama Advocates affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Please join me and the Alzheimer’s Association in urging Representative Sewell to advance the ASAP Act and help make it law.

Learn more or join the fight to end Alzheimer’s at alzimpact.org.

Sincerely,
Tammy R. Davis
Alzheimer’s Advocate