Tackling Neurological Disorders: A Global Call to Action

The World Health Organization's Intersectoral Global Action Plan (IGAP) on epilepsy and other neurological disorders aims to tackle the global burden of these conditions through a comprehensive approach. IGAP focuses on advocacy, governance, diagnosis, treatment, and stakeholder engagement to improve the quality of life for individuals with neurological disorders.

In a significant move to address the global burden of neurological disorders, the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the Intersectoral Global Action Plan (IGAP) on epilepsy and other neurological disorders, set to run from 2022 to 2031. This ambitious plan, adopted by the Seventy-fifth World Health Assembly in May 2022, aims to transform how neurological disorders are treated and perceived worldwide.

The Silent Epidemic

Neurological disorders are responsible for over 11 million deaths annually, making them one of the leading causes of disability and mortality globally. These conditions include epilepsy, dementia, migraines, neurodevelopmental disabilities, and stroke, affecting millions of lives and imposing a heavy burden on healthcare systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

The challenges are multifaceted. There is a glaring treatment gap driven by inadequate political prioritization, an insufficient health workforce, limited access to medicines, and a widespread lack of awareness. Compounding these issues is the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals with neurological disorders, which hampers their quality of life and economic opportunities, often leading to human rights violations.

A Comprehensive Approach

IGAP proposes a holistic, whole-of-society approach to address these challenges. The plan emphasizes the importance of brain health as a key component of overall well-being and integrates efforts across health systems, policies, services, and research.

Prioritization and Governance: The action plan underscores the need for advocacy and awareness-raising to enhance recognition of neurological disorders. It calls for the development and updating of policies, plans, and legislation that specifically support individuals with these conditions. Additionally, organizing resources for appropriate health system financing is crucial.

Diagnosis, Treatment, and Care: Establishing comprehensive care pathways is a priority, along with strengthening the capacity of the health workforce to manage neurological disorders effectively. Improving access to medicines and technologies is essential, as is enhancing support for carers.

Promotion of Brain Health and Prevention: The plan highlights the importance of policies, clinical care, research, and awareness initiatives aimed at promoting brain health and preventing neurological disorders.

Research and Information Systems: Addressing knowledge gaps through robust research and efficient data collection is key to understanding and managing neurological disorders better.

Targeted Actions for Specific Disorders: IGAP provides targeted actions for high-burden conditions, including brain infections, dementia, epilepsy, migraines, neurodevelopmental disabilities, and stroke, ensuring tailored strategies for effective management.

A Toolkit for Implementation

To support the implementation of IGAP, WHO has developed a comprehensive toolkit. This practical guide is designed for policymakers, program managers, and service planners, offering step-by-step actions, tools, and resources at national and subnational levels. The toolkit ensures that the plan's vision is adaptable to local contexts and priorities.

The integrated approach promoted by IGAP involves collaboration between various health and social care sectors. It emphasizes policy integration, person-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, a life-course approach, and community and primary care involvement.

Engaging Stakeholders

Successful implementation of IGAP relies heavily on stakeholder engagement. This includes government entities, civil society, people with lived experience, academia, and the private sector. Ensuring diverse perspectives fosters a sense of ownership and enhances the plan's effectiveness.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Monitoring and evaluation are critical for tracking progress and refining actions to maximize impact. Establishing indicators and integrating a robust monitoring framework will help countries assess the effectiveness of their efforts and make necessary adjustments.

The Path Forward

The adoption and implementation of IGAP by countries can significantly improve the quality of life for people with neurological disorders. It offers a roadmap to reduce the global burden of these conditions and promote brain health as a crucial aspect of individual and societal well-being.