A recent study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) has shed light on the alarming prevalence of neurological disorders worldwide. Medical News Today reported that out of the 8 billion people inhabiting the planet, a staggering 3.4 billion individuals are living with a neurological condition, accounting for approximately 42.5% of the world's population.

Published in the Lancet Neurology, the study highlighted the significant impact of nervous system disorders as the leading cause of disability among individuals across all age groups. Furthermore, the rise in brain diseases has been directly linked to an increase in premature deaths, primarily affecting third-world countries with limited access to adequate neurological healthcare facilities.

Since 1990, there has been an 18% increase in deaths and disabilities caused by brain disorders. The researchers identified the top ten neurological illnesses plaguing societies, including stroke, neonatal encephalopathy, migraine, Alzheimer's disease, other dementias, diabetic neuropathy, meningitis, epilepsy, neurological complications due to preterm birth, autism spectrum disorder, and nervous system cancer.

One particularly alarming finding from the study revealed that diabetic neuropathy, a form of nerve damage resulting from high diabetes, has seen a three-fold increase since 1990, making it the fastest-growing brain illness. The researchers also noted that COVID-19 may have contributed to the rise in nerve-related conditions, with statistics indicating long-term cognitive impairment and Guillain-Barré syndrome as potential outcomes of the virus.

Dr. David Merill, the director of the Pacific Neuroscience Institute in California, emphasized the role of individual health-related behaviors in mitigating the risk of chronic neurological conditions. He advocated for lifestyle changes that focus on regular exercise, socializing, cognitive stimulation, and a healthy diet to lower the likelihood of developing dementia and other neurological disorders.

As the WHO study sheds light on the magnitude of neurological disorders affecting billions globally, it highlights the urgent need for enhanced healthcare infrastructure and access to neurological care, particularly in disadvantaged communities. Efforts aimed at prevention, early detection, and improved treatment options are crucial to address the growing burden of brain diseases in our societies.