According to a Dec. 19 press release, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra announced the annual release of the Department's National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease: 2022 Update. HHS, through the National Plan, is working to improve the course of Alzheimer's and related dementias (ADRD) research, support those living with dementia and their caregivers, and promote habits to reduce risk factors.
The press release states that “An estimated 6 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease or a related type of dementia. That number is expected to more than double by 2060 due to the aging of the population, making dementia a major public health issue as well as a challenge for the healthcare system. The chance of developing dementia is not equal—Black and Latino Americans are more likely to develop the condition, as are people with risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or depression. Native American and Asian American adults living with Alzheimer’s disease are less likely to receive a timely diagnosis.”
Further, “The 2022 Update includes several notable recent actions to address disparities in ADRD care. Earlier this year, the Indian Health Service (IHS) established the Alzheimer’s Grant Program, a first-of-its kind funding opportunity that supports the development of comprehensive dementia programs, as well as education and training efforts for healthcare providers, persons living with ADRD, and their caregivers. IHS also launched an Indian Health Geriatric Scholars pilot, which will provide intensive training to primary care clinicians at IHS, Tribal, and Urban Indian Health programs.”
Added as a goal in 2021, the 2022 update aims to continue to reduce risk factors for ADRD. Moreover, the National Alzheimer's Project Act, which was signed into law in 2011, established the Advisory Council on Alzheimer's Research, Care, and Services and charged the HHS Secretary with creating and annually updating a National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease.
The release adds that “The National Plan has six ambitious goals to:
- Prevent and Effectively Treat Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias by 2025
- Enhance Care Quality and Efficiency
- Expand Supports for People with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias and Their Families
- Enhance Public Awareness and Engagement
- Improve Data to Track Progress
- Accelerate Action to Promote Healthy Aging and Reduce Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias”
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra was quoted in the release saying that “At HHS, we are committed to supporting all communities affected by Alzheimer’s disease. We are proud of the bold steps we have taken through our National Plan to reduce disparities in Alzheimer’s disease, support people with the disease and their caregivers, and reduce risk factors for the disease through public health measures.”
