Bold steps needed for Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's is a devastating and costly disease. It is the only leading cause of death among the top 10 in the U.S. without a way to prevent, cure or even slow its progression. Now is the time to change the trajectory of this disease.

Today, the more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer's cost our nation an estimated $226 billion, including $153 billion to Medicare and Medicaid. If we fail to make a difference right now in the fight against Alzheimer's, the number of Americans living with Alzheimer's could soar to as many as 16 million by 2050.

We must take bold steps now toward finding the needed treatments, prevention and, one day, a cure. I urge congressman Jason Smith to help change the trajectory of Alzheimer's disease by supporting an increase in Alzheimer's research funding by at least $300 million.

We must invest more today to find treatments and a cure.

Cheryl Klueppel, Cape Girardeau