Do More than 1 in 3 People Globally Suffer from Brain Disorders, Leading to 11 Million Deaths Annually?
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Synopsis
A startling new report from the WHO reveals that over 1 in 3 people worldwide suffer from brain disorders, with 11 million deaths attributed to these conditions every year. With a severe shortage of neurologists in low-income countries, urgent action is needed to address this growing health crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Over 1 in 3 people globally suffer from brain disorders.
- 11 million deaths occur annually due to neurological conditions.
- Only 63 countries have a national policy addressing these disorders.
- Low-income nations have 80 times fewer neurologists than high-income countries.
- Access to essential neurological services is often limited.
New Delhi, Oct 14 (NationPress) More than 1 in 3 individuals across the globe are grappling with conditions that impair their brain function, with a staggering 11 million fatalities each year attributed to neurological disorders, as highlighted in a recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO) released on Tuesday.
The report identifies the leading ten neurological disorders contributing to mortality and disability, including stroke, neonatal encephalopathy, migraine, Alzheimer's disease along with other dementias, diabetic neuropathy, meningitis, idiopathic epilepsy, neurological complications related to preterm birth, autism spectrum disorders, and nervous system cancers.
According to the report, these neurological conditions currently impact over 40 percent of the world’s population, and alarmingly, fewer than one in three countries have established a national policy to tackle the escalating burden posed by these disorders.
Worse yet, low-income nations face a severe shortage of neurologists, with over 80 times fewer specialists compared to their high-income counterparts, despite the higher prevalence of these illnesses.
Many low- and middle-income countries are also devoid of national strategies, budgets, and adequate workforce.
“With over 1 in 3 individuals globally affected by brain-related conditions, it is imperative that we enhance the healthcare services available to them,” stated Dr. Jeremy Farrar, WHO Assistant Director-General, Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control.
“Numerous neurological disorders can be either prevented or effectively managed; however, access to these services remains limited, particularly in rural and underserved areas where individuals often encounter stigma, social exclusion, and financial difficulties. We must unite our efforts to prioritize brain health and ensure that patients and their families receive the necessary care,” Farrar emphasized.
The report, based on data from 102 countries, reveals that only 63 countries have implemented a national policy addressing neurological disorders, and just 34 of these have allocated specific funding to tackle the issue.
In the absence of robust policy frameworks, healthcare systems remain fragmented, underfunded, and inadequately prepared to cater to the needs of patients and their families.
Moreover, essential services for neurological disorders are often inaccessible, with only 49 countries including these conditions in their universal health coverage benefit packages.
Crucial services such as stroke units, pediatric neurology, rehabilitation, and palliative care are frequently insufficient or concentrated in urban locales, leaving rural and underserved communities without access to vital care.
The WHO has called on governments to prioritize neurological disorders through decisive leadership and continuous investment, expanding access to care via universal health coverage and strengthening health systems.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the severe impact of neurological disorders on global health. The WHO report underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies and dedicated funding to address this crisis, particularly in low-income regions where the burden is highest. NationPress remains committed to advocating for policies that prioritize brain health and enhance accessibility to essential healthcare services.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the leading neurological disorders affecting global health?
The top neurological disorders contributing to death and disability include stroke, neonatal encephalopathy, migraine, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetic neuropathy, meningitis, idiopathic epilepsy, autism spectrum disorders, and cancers of the nervous system.
What percentage of the global population is affected by neurological disorders?
The report indicates that more than 40 percent of the global population is currently affected by neurological conditions.
How many countries have a national policy for neurological disorders?
According to the report, only 63 countries have established a national policy addressing neurological disorders.
What is the impact of low-income countries on neurological care?
Low-income countries have over 80 times fewer neurologists compared to high-income countries, making access to care significantly limited.
What actions does the WHO recommend for improving neurological health?
The WHO urges governments to prioritize neurological disorders through strong leadership, investment, and expanding access to care via universal health coverage.
