The Global Rise of Neurological Conditions and How You Can Protect Your Brain Health
Neurological conditions are now affecting more than one in three people worldwide, and the numbers are steadily climbing. According to recent reports from the World Health Organization (WHO), neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and migraines have become some of the leading causes of disability and illness across the globe. While certain factors like aging and genetics are beyond our control, there are proactive steps you can take to protect your brain health and reduce your risk.
Understanding the Surge in Neurological Disorders
Several factors contribute to the rise in neurological conditions. One major factor is the aging global population, as many of these conditions are age-related. For instance, as people live longer, conditions like Alzheimer’s and stroke have become more common. Advances in medical technology have also made it easier to diagnose these conditions earlier and more accurately, revealing the true extent of the global neurological burden.
Lifestyle factors are also a significant contributor. Increasingly sedentary habits, poor diets, and exposure to environmental toxins have played a role in the rise of neurological disorders. For instance, stroke and dementia are often linked to cardiovascular health, which is affected by lifestyle choices.
What Can You Do to Prevent Neurological Conditions?
While some aspects of brain health may be out of our hands, there are many lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of neurological conditions and improve your overall well-being.
1. Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise is crucial for brain health. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, reduces inflammation, and promotes neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells). Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week—activities like walking, cycling, or dancing can significantly benefit your brain.
2. Eat a Brain-Boosting Diet
A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and whole foods is essential for brain health. Diets like the Mediterranean diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and lean proteins, are linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Foods high in antioxidants (e.g., berries, leafy greens) and omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., salmon, walnuts) can help protect brain cells and support memory.
3. Manage Stress Effectively
Chronic stress can cause inflammation in the brain and lead to structural changes over time. To protect your brain, engage in stress management practices like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. Mental stimulation through reading, learning new skills, or puzzles can also improve cognitive resilience and reduce the risk of neurological decline.
4. Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is essential for clearing harmful brain proteins and consolidating memories. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Reducing caffeine intake in the afternoon, limiting screen time before bed, and creating a calming bedtime routine can enhance sleep quality.
5. Protect Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular health directly impacts brain health. Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes are risk factors for stroke and dementia. Regular checkups and heart-healthy habits—such as limiting salt intake, managing weight, and avoiding tobacco—can help reduce these risks.
6. Keep Your Brain Engaged
Mental stimulation helps maintain cognitive function as you age. Activities like learning a new language, playing an instrument, or engaging in challenging games or puzzles can strengthen neural connections and support brain health.
7. Limit Exposure to Toxins
Exposure to toxins can harm brain cells over time. Reduce exposure to pollutants, pesticides, and chemicals by choosing natural cleaning products, ensuring proper ventilation, and thoroughly washing produce. Limiting alcohol and avoiding recreational drugs are also crucial steps to protect brain health.
The Impact of Neurological Conditions on Global Healthcare
Neurological conditions represent a significant portion of healthcare costs globally, deeply impacting individuals’ quality of life. Yet, there is a considerable treatment gap, especially in low- and middle-income countries where access to care and medications is limited. The WHO has called for expanded access to neurological treatments to help reduce this global health crisis.
Kane Hall Barry Neurology: Your Partner in Brain Health
At Kane Hall Barry Neurology, we’re committed to addressing the rise in neurological disorders by providing comprehensive and personalized care. Since 1995, we’ve helped patients improve brain health with early diagnoses, individualized treatment plans, and a patient-centered approach. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about neurological health, reach out to us at (817) 267-6290 or schedule an appointment online today.
Take Charge of Your Brain Health Today
By making these lifestyle changes, you can support your brain health, potentially reduce your risk of neurological conditions, and enjoy a higher quality of life. For more resources or to consult with our team, contact Kane Hall Barry Neurology.
If you are struggling with a neurological condition or neurological symptoms, you can call (817)267-6290 to schedule an appointment or schedule a new patient appointment online.
References
- Feigin, V. L., Vos, T., Nichols, E., Owolabi, M. O., Carroll, W. M., Dichgans, M., … & Murray, C. J. (2019). The global burden of neurological disorders: translating evidence into policy. The Lancet Neurology, 18(5), 439-448. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(19)30029-8
- GBD Neurological Disorders Collaborators. (2024). Global, regional, and national burden of neurological disorders, 1990–2020: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2020. The Lancet Neurology. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(24)00038-3
- Gooch CL, Pracht E, Borenstein AR. The burden of neurological disease in the United States: A summary report and call to action. Ann Neurol. 2017 Apr;81(4):479-484. doi: 10.1002/ana.24897. PMID: 28198092. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28198092/
- World Health Organization. (2024a, March 14). Over 1 in 3 people affected by neurological conditions: The leading cause of illness and disability worldwide. https://www.who.int/news/item/14-03-2024-over-1-in-3-people-affected-by-neurological-conditions–the-leading-cause-of-illness-and-disability-worldwide
- World Health Organization. (2024b, July 22). WHO calls for better access to medicines to reduce vast treatment gap for neurological disorders. https://www.who.int/news/item/22-07-2024-who-calls-for-better-access-to-medicines-to-reduce-vast-treatment-gap-for-neurological-disorders
- World Health Organization. (2024c). Brain health. https://www.who.int/health-topics/brain-health#tab=tab_1
