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Alzheimer's Fight Gets Boost: New HHS Council Appointed

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 17:24 GMT by reuters.com
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Washington, D.C. - February 24th, 2026 - In a critical move to bolster the nation's fight against Alzheimer's disease, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra today announced the appointment of Dr. Laura Sperling as the new chair of the Federal Advisory Council on Alzheimer's Research, Care, and Services, and the addition of ten new members. The reshuffle signals a renewed commitment to tackling the escalating crisis of Alzheimer's and related dementias, a condition affecting millions of Americans and placing an immense strain on healthcare systems and families.

Dr. Sperling, a highly respected neurologist and researcher at Harvard Medical School, succeeds Dr. Ronald Peterson, who has guided the council for several years. The transition comes at a pivotal moment. With the aging of the baby boomer generation and advancements in longevity, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer's is projected to soar in the coming decades, demanding urgent and innovative solutions. Current estimates suggest over 6.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's, a figure expected to more than double by 2050 if no breakthroughs are made in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The Federal Advisory Council, established through the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) in 2011, serves as a vital conduit between the scientific community, healthcare providers, patient advocates, and policymakers. Its primary function is to provide expert advice and recommendations to the HHS Secretary on all facets of Alzheimer's disease, from fundamental research into the underlying causes to practical improvements in care delivery and support services. The council's recommendations directly influence the strategic direction of the National Alzheimer's Plan, a multi-faceted effort designed to accelerate progress toward preventing and effectively treating this devastating disease.

The ten newly appointed members represent a deliberately diverse range of expertise. HHS officials confirmed that the new cohort includes leading researchers specializing in areas like amyloid plaque formation, tau protein tangles (the hallmarks of Alzheimer's), and the role of genetics and lifestyle factors in disease development. Crucially, the council now boasts increased representation from healthcare professionals directly involved in patient care, including geriatricians, neurologists, and nurses. This clinical perspective is essential for ensuring that research findings translate into tangible benefits for those living with the disease.

Advocacy and community engagement are also strongly represented in the new lineup. Several appointees have extensive experience working with patient advocacy groups and grassroots organizations, providing a voice for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. Their insights are invaluable in understanding the lived experiences of those navigating the challenges of the disease and ensuring that policies are patient-centered and responsive to their needs.

The appointment of Dr. Sperling and the new council members comes amid a period of both hope and frustration in Alzheimer's research. While recent approvals of drugs like lecanemab and donanemab have offered a glimmer of hope, these treatments are not cures and are associated with significant side effects. Furthermore, access to these therapies remains limited due to cost and logistical challenges. The council will be tasked with advising Secretary Becerra on ways to address these barriers and ensure equitable access to the latest advancements.

Beyond pharmacological interventions, the council is expected to prioritize research into non-pharmacological approaches to care, such as cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, and social engagement. These interventions can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and potentially delay disease progression. There's also growing attention on the critical need for early detection. Experts believe that intervening early in the disease process, even before symptoms manifest, may be key to slowing its progression. The council will likely explore strategies for expanding access to early detection tools and improving diagnostic accuracy.

The impact of Alzheimer's extends far beyond the individuals diagnosed with the disease. The economic cost of Alzheimer's care is staggering, projected to reach over $1 trillion annually by 2050. The emotional toll on families and caregivers is immeasurable. The new advisory council is poised to play a critical role in shaping a future where Alzheimer's is no longer the looming public health crisis it is today.