The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a stark warning about the global rise in neurological diseases, urging governments to invest urgently in brain health and strengthen neurological care systems.
A new WHO report shows that fewer than one in three countries have national policies on neurological disorders, while only 18 per cent have dedicated funding.
The Global Status Report on Neurology warns that essential care and services remain out of reach for most people, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
“With more than 1 in 3 people in the world living with conditions affecting their brain we must do all we can to improve the health care they need,” said Dr Jeremy Farrar, WHO Assistant Director-General.
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The report identifies stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, migraine, meningitis and cancers of the nervous system among the top causes of death and disability.
It also reveals that low-income countries have up to 82 times fewer neurologists than high-income nations, leaving millions without timely diagnosis or treatment.
Only a quarter of countries include neurological disorders in universal health coverage, and most specialised services such as stroke units and rehabilitation centres are limited to urban areas.
WHO says weak health systems, poor data collection and underfunding continue to hinder progress.
The organisation is urging governments to prioritise neurological health, expand access to care and invest in workforce development.
It also called for stronger support for carers, noting that only 46 countries offer carer services and 44 have legal protections in place.
Member States adopted the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders in 2022 to guide policy responses, but WHO says implementation remains slow.
“The action plan provides countries with a roadmap to strengthen policy prioritization, ensure timely and effective care including health promotion and disease prevention, improve data systems, and engage people with lived experience in shaping more inclusive policies and services,” Farrar said.
“Without action, the burden of neurological disorders will continue to rise, deepening global health inequalities.”
