Pasco Reporter

U.S. Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) have introduced the Harmonizing Environmental Analyses and Launching Therapeutic Hubs to Yield Bolstered Research And Innovation in Neurological Science (HEALTHY BRAINS) Act. The legislation aims to enhance research into environmental risk factors, including toxicant exposure, for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Over 50 million people globally are affected by these conditions.

Research indicates that many neurodegenerative diseases may be significantly influenced by environmental factors. For instance, a large percentage of Parkinson’s disease cases cannot be solely attributed to genetic inheritance, suggesting that environmental exposures play a major role in disease risk and progression. While some contributing factors like the chemical Trichloroethylene (TCE) are known, further research is necessary to understand the full scope of potential dangers.

“We know that research is the key to developing a better understanding of diseases and holds the promise for the development of more effective treatments and potential cures,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “Through the HEALTHY BRAINS Act we are investing in research that will hopefully help us better understand the underlying factors that contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. I am optimistic about how the implications can help us improve health outcomes for millions of Americans who are suffering with these horrific ailments.”

“Neurodegenerative diseases currently affect more than 50 million people worldwide, and as one of those people impacted, I understand firsthand how devastating these diseases are for them and their families,” said Rep. Wexton. “The best way we can do better for these families is by ensuring no other family has to go through what theirs, and mine, have. We have a lot of work to do to understand how to prevent these diseases in the first place. That’s why I’m proud to lead the bipartisan HEALTHY BRAINS Act alongside my friend Rep. Bilirakis.”

The HEALTHY BRAINS Act proposes establishing Collaborative Centers for Neurodegenerative Disease Environmental Research under the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These centers would conduct basic, applied, and clinical research on environmental risk factors' effects in collaboration with researchers, health professionals, nonprofit organizations, patients, and caregivers.

The act has garnered support from several organizations including the American Academy of Neurology, American Brain Coalition, Michael J. Fox Foundation, ALS Association among others.

“The introduction of the HEALTHY BRAINS Act in the House is a much-needed step forward in better understanding treating and someday curing neurological diseases including Parkinson’s disease,” said Ted Thompson from The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

“As a neurologist...the Healthy Brains Act is an important step towards identifying how such factors in our air water food...may affect brain health," stated Carlayne E. Jackson from American Academy of Neurology.

Mark M. Rasenick from American Brain Coalition noted: "This legislation represents a significant step towards understanding...environmental risk factors."

Calaneet Balas from ALS Association expressed gratitude towards Congresswoman Wexton: "Enactment...will help identify environmental risk factors."

Jessica Shurer from CurePSP highlighted: "The HEALTHY BRAINS Act will create an organized effort...to better understand relationships between environmental risk factors."

For further details on this legislative proposal visit [link].