The growing global burden of neurologic disorders: Statistics, challenges, and solutions

Neurologic disorders are increasingly recognized as a major global health threat, affecting millions of people worldwide and posing significant challenges to healthcare systems. Among these disorders, stroke, dementia, and epilepsy are particularly prevalent. Like many chronic neurologic conditions, they are often associated with substantial morbidity. Addressing these conditions from the transnational public health standpoint requires a comprehensive approach, including advancements in drug development, implementation of effective policies, and global collaboration.

Neurologic disorders by the numbers

Stroke. Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and death globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 12.2 million people suffer a stroke each year, and 101 million people worldwide are living with the aftermath of a stroke. One in four people will have a stroke in their lifetime, and this number has doubled over the last 17 years. In 2017, the estimated worldwide cost of stroke was US$451 billion (World Stroke Association 2022). The global incidence of stroke is projected to rise due to aging populations and increased prevalence of risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes.

Dementia. Dementia, including Alzheimer disease, affects around 55 million people worldwide, with nearly 10 million new cases every year (World Health Organization 2023). The number of people living with dementia across the world is expected to rise to 139 million in 2050, according to the WHO. The costs associated with dementia are also expected to more than double from US$1.3 trillion per year in 2019 to $2.8 trillion by 2030 (Alzheimer’s Disease International 2023).

Epilepsy. Epilepsy affects about 50 million people globally, making it one of the most common neurologic disorders. Despite the availability of effective treatments, up to 70% of people with epilepsy in low- and middle-income countries do not receive adequate care due to a lack of access to medications and healthcare services (World Stroke Organization 2024).

Advancing drug development

Innovative therapies. Developing new and more effective therapies is crucial. Advances in genomics and precision medicine are paving the way for treatments tailored to individual genetic profiles. For example, targeted therapies for specific genetic mutations in epilepsy are showing promise in reducing seizure frequency and severity.

Neuroprotective agents. Research into neuroprotective agents that can prevent or slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases is essential. For instance, drugs that target amyloid plaques and tau tangles in Alzheimer disease are under investigation and hold potential for altering disease progression.

Drug repurposing. Repurposing existing drugs for new therapeutic uses can expedite the availability of treatments. For example, certain antiseizure medications have been found to have neuroprotective properties that could benefit patients with other neurologic conditions, such as traumatic brain injury and multiple sclerosis.

Policy changes and global collaboration

Improving access to care. Ensuring that effective treatments and healthcare services are accessible to all populations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, is critical. Policies that support the availability of affordable medications and the training of healthcare professionals can bridge the treatment gap.

Strengthening research and development. Governments and private sectors should invest in research and development to foster innovation in neurologic disorder treatments. Collaborative initiatives, such as public-private partnerships and international research consortia, can accelerate progress.

Public health initiatives. Implementing public health initiatives that focus on prevention and early detection of neurologic disorders can reduce the overall burden. For example, stroke prevention programs that promote healthy lifestyles and control of risk factors like hypertension and diabetes can significantly decrease incidence rates. The incidence of stroke has declined in the United States but not in all populations, presumably because of a reduction in the role of risk factors (Silver 2023).

Advocacy and awareness. Raising awareness about neurologic disorders and advocating for patient rights and support are vital. Organizations such as the World Stroke Organization and the Alzheimer’s Association are key in educating the public, supporting patients and caregivers, and influencing policy decisions.

Conclusion

Neurologic disorders pose a significant global health threat, but with concerted efforts in drug development, policy implementation, and global collaboration, the burden can be mitigated. Advancements in precision medicine, neuroprotective therapies, and drug repurposing offer hope for more effective treatments. Ensuring equitable access to care and strengthening public health initiatives are crucial steps toward improving the lives of those affected by neurologic disorders. By working together, the medical community can make significant strides in reducing the global impact of these debilitating conditions.

References

Alzheimer’s Disease International. World Alzheimer Report 2023. Available at: https://www.alzint.org/u/World-Alzheimer-Report-2023.pdf. 2023.

Engel J. Epilepsy. San Diego: MedLink Neurology. Available at: https://www.medlink.com/articles/epilepsy. 2023.

Geldmacher DS, Fischer DL. Alzheimer disease. San Diego: MedLink Neurology. Available at: https://www.medlink.com/articles/alzheimer-disease. 2023.

Rodriguez KM, Benbadis SR. Epilepsy: treatment in low and middle income countries. San Diego: MedLink Neurology. Available at: https://www.medlink.com/articles/epilepsy-treatment-in-low-and-middle-income-countries. 2024.

Silver B. Ischemic stroke. San Diego: MedLink Neurology. Available at: https://www.medlink.com/articles/ischemic-stroke. 2023.

World Health Organization. Dementia. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia. 2023.

World Health Organization. Epilepsy. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/epilepsy. 2024.

World Stroke Organization. Global stroke fact sheet. Available at: https://www.world-stroke.org/assets/downloads/WSO_Global_Stroke_Fact_Sheet.pdf. 2022.

MedLink acknowledges the use of ChatGPT-4, an Artificial Intelligence chatbot, in drafting this blog entry.

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