Guinta Meets with Alzheimer's Association

Today, U.S. Rep. Frank Guinta, R-NH, met with local representatives from the Alzheimer’s Association to discuss the importance of increased funding for Alzheimer’s; a disease that affects more than five million Americans and is considered one of the fastest growing mental illnesses, according to a press statement.

“I know firsthand how our current system is failing those with mental illness and also where there are opportunities to strengthen our system,” he said. “Around 30% of Americans are dealing with some form of mental illness as well as the financial challenges associated with caring for someone with a mental illness. Alzheimer’s is a disease the affects over 5 million Americans and as many as 16 million will have the disease in 2050. These numbers are unacceptable and I believe the proper funding should be allocated toward research in order to make advances in finding a cure for this devastating disease. I look forward to continuing to meet with stakeholders and devise the proper response to deal with this important issue”

Guinta is a member of the Congressional Alzheimer’s Caucus and cosponsored two bills allowing for increased funding for Alzheimer’s research – the CURES Act and HR1559, the Hope for Alzheimer’s Act. Currently, in the Labor HHS House Appropriations bill, is an additional $300 million to be allocated toward Alzheimer’s research and if brought to the House floor, Rep. Guinta would support the increase in funding.