WHO Tweeted That 1 in 3 Of Us Will Develop A Brain Disorder At One Point In Our Life

Brain Health is an emerging and growing concept that encompasses neural development, plasticity, functioning, and recovery across the life course. Good brain health is a state in which every individual can realize their own abilities and optimize their cognitive, emotional, psychological and behavioral functioning to cope with life situations. Numerous interconnected social and biological determinants (incl. genetics) play a role in brain development and brain health from pre-conception through the end of life. These determinants influence how our brains develop, adapt, and respond to stress and adversity, giving way to strategies for both promotion and prevention across the life course.

Brain health conditions emerge throughout the life course and are characterized by disruptions in normal brain growth and/or brain functioning. They may manifest as neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions such as intellectual developmental disorders, autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, dementia, cerebrovascular disease, headache, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, neuroinfections, brain tumors, traumatic injury and neurological disorders resulting from malnutrition. Health and social care for these conditions require multisectoral and interdisciplinary collaborations with a holistic person-centered approach focused on promotion, prevention, treatment, care and rehabilitation over the lifespan and the active engagement of persons experiencing the conditions and their families and carers, as appropriate.

According to the World Health Organisation, the brain is the most complex organ in the human body. Brain disorders are the causes of disability and death, worldwide. 1 in 3 of us will develop a brain disorder at one point in our life. 70% of the burden of neurological disorders falls on low- and middle-income countries, yet only 20% of low-income countries have dedicated policies for neurological disorders.

The risk factors that affect brain health are:

• Poor nutrition
• Inadequate sleep
• Lack of physical activity
• Genetics
• Traumatic injuries
• Infections
• Air, water, & food pollution

Brain health conditions emerge throughout life and are characterized by disruptions in normal brain growth or brain functioning. It is essential to be physically active, eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, stimulate our minds, look after our hearts and wear a helmet in order to protect our brain.

Over To You:
Brain health can be optimized for everyone, but global efforts are required. You have only one brain, take good care of it!