Neurological disorders are a leading cause of disability-adjusted life years and premature death globally, posing a significant and growing public health challenge. This chapter explores the global burden of neurological conditions, with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries, where the impact is most severe. It outlines key drivers of this burden, including demographic and epidemiological transitions, health system inadequacies, and the effects of environmental factors, including infections, toxins, and climate change. The chapter identifies four key systemic challenges, including resource and infrastructure limitations, financial and economic barriers, knowledge and social barriers, and policy and prioritization gaps. It emphasizes the need for investment in workforce development, diagnostic and treatment infrastructure, integration into primary and community-based care, and broader health system strengthening, alongside efforts to reduce stigma and improve awareness. By embedding neurology into broader health systems and aligning with relevant global mandates, countries can reduce the burden of neurological disorders and promote equitable access to care. This chapter calls for urgent, coordinated action to ensure that neurological health is recognized as a public health priority.

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Neurology and Public Health

  • Yohane Gadama,
  • Katarina Pisani,
  • Nicoline Schiess,
  • Tarun Dua

摘要

Neurological disorders are a leading cause of disability-adjusted life years and premature death globally, posing a significant and growing public health challenge. This chapter explores the global burden of neurological conditions, with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries, where the impact is most severe. It outlines key drivers of this burden, including demographic and epidemiological transitions, health system inadequacies, and the effects of environmental factors, including infections, toxins, and climate change. The chapter identifies four key systemic challenges, including resource and infrastructure limitations, financial and economic barriers, knowledge and social barriers, and policy and prioritization gaps. It emphasizes the need for investment in workforce development, diagnostic and treatment infrastructure, integration into primary and community-based care, and broader health system strengthening, alongside efforts to reduce stigma and improve awareness. By embedding neurology into broader health systems and aligning with relevant global mandates, countries can reduce the burden of neurological disorders and promote equitable access to care. This chapter calls for urgent, coordinated action to ensure that neurological health is recognized as a public health priority.