#South Korea #Seoul #World Health Organization #Brain Health #Neurology Congress

WHO Unveils Global Strategy for Brain Health

At the recent World Congress of Neurology (WCN) held in Seoul, South Korea, the World Health Organization (WHO) presented a significant report regarding brain health, revealing that more than 40% of the global population—over 3 billion individuals—are impacted by neurological disorders. This staggering statistic highlights an urgent need for action and strategy in addressing brain-related health issues.

Dr. Tarun Dua from WHO emphasized the practical paths available for nations looking to improve brain health. He stated that integrating brain health into universal health coverage (UHC) policies, enhancing primary healthcare, and ensuring access to essential medications are critical steps toward remedying this global health crisis. Moreover, he highlighted that reducing stigmas associated with neurological conditions is essential for advancing treatment and care.

A major concern raised in the report is the lack of comprehensive policies on neurology in various countries, particularly in low- and middle-income regions where the prevalence of these disorders is most severe. Despite the high demand for neurological services, many healthcare systems continue to fall short of providing adequate care. Dr. Dua urged policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to work together to create a holistic approach that shifts focus from isolated treatments to coordinated care that addresses neurological health at the community level.

The WCN serves not only as a platform for sharing research but also as a crucial event for advocacy in brain health. Prof. Wolfgang Grisold, president of the World Federation of Neurology, discussed the importance of neurologists taking an active role in promoting brain health policies globally. He highlighted the commitment of the WFN to collaborate with WHO on concrete solutions, including advocacy and training programs aimed at equipping healthcare professionals, especially in underserved areas.

The WHO's Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders (IGAP) aims to medium to long-term goals regarding neuroscience and brain health. This strategic outline provides a multi-faceted approach to tackling various issues surrounding neurological health. Notable examples in the implementation of this action plan include improvements in medication access in Tanzania and community-driven health mapping initiatives in South Africa, which showcase how national societies and ministries of health can adapt global strategies for local implementation.

The urgency of this initiative was underscored by Dr. Dua during his address, where he called for immediate action to prioritize brain health as a significant part of public health policies worldwide. The report’s release at the WCN adds weight to this call, making it a pivotal moment in the global discourse on neurological health.

In conclusion, the WHO's roadmap aims to unify global efforts to improve brain health, recognizing both the scale of the issue and the necessity for integrated strategies that involve all sectors of society. Investing in neurological health is not merely a health agenda—it is a critical public health priority that holds the potential to drastically improve lives across the globe. As the WCN continues its work in this arena, the collective effort of healthcare leaders, policymakers, and community organizations will be indispensable in translating this vision into reality.