35 million people around the world affected by Alzheimer's disease: Nancy Pelosi

Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in recognition of World Alzheimer's Day. The theme of this year's World Alzheimer's Day is "Diagnosing Dementia: See It Sooner."

"Alzheimer's disease is a scourge afflicting Americans in every state and community. According to a new report, it affects 35 million people around the world -- and that number is expected to nearly double in 20 years, to more than 65 million in 2030.

"Leaders in the United States and across the globe cannot ignore the effects of Alzheimer's and dementia. We must not stand idly by while countless individuals and families confront this disease alone. We must invest more in research to combat this disease, discover new treatments, and offer hope and comfort to communities too often left without a safety net or a source of support.

"A necessary step in the fight against Alzheimer's disease is passage of the Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act -- a bipartisan proposal to increase funding for Alzheimer's at the National Institutes of Health and restore momentum in the pursuit for better diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

"Inaction in the face of this debilitating disease is unacceptable. Let this World Alzheimer's Day be a moment to renew our search for a cure, promote preventive care and treatments, and rededicate ourselves to curing this devastating disease."