Baltimore, Maryland – The Maryland Department of Health has received a substantial, five-year, $2.5 million grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to strengthen disease prevention and care initiatives. Alzheimer’s and related dementia statewide. This grant, allocated as part of the federal Building Our Largest Alzheimer’s Dementia Infrastructure Act, passed in 2018, represents an important step in establishing a comprehensive national public health framework for fight Alzheimer’s disease and associated dementias while prioritizing brain health. The grant is in effect from September 30, 2023 to September 29, 2028.
Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are an urgent and financially burdensome public health problem, according to Maryland Department of Health Secretary Laura Herrera Scott. She highlighted the urgency of addressing this concern and recognized that the grant would be essential to supporting the communities most affected by these devastating diseases. Additionally, the grant is expected to ease pressure on caregivers and families caring for Alzheimer’s patients.
The sad reality remains: Alzheimer’s disease is the fifth leading cause of death among Americans aged 65 and older, according to data from the National Institutes of Health. The need for robust prevention and care programs is paramount in the fight against this debilitating disease.
The Maryland Department of Health, in collaboration with the Virginia I. Jones Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Council, plans to use the awarded funds to monitor and report on the activities of the State Plan of Maryland aimed at fighting Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Additionally, the grant will help expand its “Healthy Brain Aging” awareness campaign to promote early detection and diagnosis and encourage healthy brain aging. The campaign will focus on raising awareness and educating the public on the importance of cognitive health.
At a time when the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias is increasing, the importance of early detection and diagnosis cannot be overstated. These conditions place a considerable burden on families and caregivers, both emotionally and financially.
For those interested in learning more about cognitive health, Alzheimer’s disease and related issues, more information can be found at health.maryland.gov/brainhealth. This resource will provide valuable information and resources to those seeking information on maintaining cognitive health and supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
The grant from the Maryland Department of Health represents a substantial investment in the state’s health infrastructure. It will not only expand efforts to combat Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, but also provide support to families and caregivers who have the responsibility of caring for those suffering from these diseases. With the increasing prevalence of these diseases, such initiatives are crucial to preserving the health and well-being of the aging population and fostering a culture of early detection and intervention in Maryland.
