Neurological disorders now account for a staggering 43% of the global burden of disease, a crisis disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries, according to a new appeal published in The Lancet. This stark statistic underscores the urgent need to prioritize brain health for everyone, everywhere, at every age.
Brain Health: A Global Imperative Across Lifespans
A new publication calls for brain health to become a global public health priority, advocating for a patient-centered approach.
- Neurological disorders represent 43% of the global disease burden.
- Low- and middle-income countries bear the greatest impact.
- Brain health must be integrated into national health strategies.
- A people-centered approach prioritizes patients and communities.
Marking World Brain Day 2025, the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) released “Brain Health for All Ages: A Global Call to Action.” Co-authored by WFN President Professor Wolfgang Grisold and Trustees Professors David W. Dodick, Alla Guekht, Steven Lewis, and Tissa Wijeratne, the article is a powerful plea to elevate brain health on the global agenda.
Rethinking Neurological Care: A People-Centered Model
The authors propose a significant shift in how neurological care is delivered. They advocate for an “inverted pyramid” model. This approach places patients, their families, and the public at the apex. Below them are layers of support including accessible information, community health workers, and integrated health systems. Specialist societies and policymakers are urged to bolster this community-first strategy, rather than dominate it.
“This is a defining moment for our field. Brain health is not a luxury; it is a necessity for individuals, communities, and economies everywhere.
This publication reinforces the message of our campaign: from preconception to old age, brain health must be protected, prioritised, and promoted. We must act now—together—to reduce suffering and build a healthier future for all.”
Professor Tissa Wijeratne, Co-Chair of World Brain Day 2025 and WFN Trustee.
Data-Driven Advocacy for Brain Health
The World Brain Day 2025 theme, “Brain Health for All Ages,” aligns with the article’s core message. It emphasizes protecting and promoting brain health throughout the entire lifespan. The publication draws on findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, which highlighted several critical points:
- Neurological disorders increasingly impact individuals as they age.
- Underserved populations face a disproportionately high burden.
- There is an urgent need for prevention, early intervention, and ongoing support across all life stages.
“Brain health must be embedded into national health strategies and development agendas.
This is a call to the global neurology community to act, collaborate, and lead.”
Professor Wolfgang Grisold, WFN President.
Why is brain health crucial for global public health? Neurological disorders account for 43% of the global disease burden, with significant disparities in access to care and prevention. This makes brain health a critical issue for populations worldwide.
A Unified Call for Global Action
As neurological conditions continue their upward trend globally, this article serves as a vital roadmap. It calls upon clinicians, health workers, civil society, and decision-makers to adopt a comprehensive, inclusive, and equitable vision for brain health.
The WFN encourages widespread engagement with the article. By working together, stakeholders can develop systems that prevent disease, reduce disability, and foster lifelong brain health for all.
The World Health Organization (WHO) supports brain health initiatives through its 10-year intersectoral global action plan, endorsed by all 194 member countries. The UN Economic and Social Council also recognizes brain health’s importance and participates in World Brain Day, observed annually on July 22 by the WFN.
Read the full article in The Lancet:
“Brain Health for All Ages: A Global Call to Action” ⧉
Learn more about World Brain Day 2025:
www.wfneurology.org/world-brain-day-2025 ⧉
#WorldBrainDay | #BrainHealthForAllAges | #WFN | #GlobalNeurology
