Neurological disorders are now the leading global cause of disease burden, posing significant public health challenges. In response, the WHO introduced a neurological disorder report: the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders (IGAP), aiming to improve care access, prevent new cases, and promote brain health. To meet IGAP’s target of 80% of countries providing essential neurological medicines in primary care by 2031, a new WHO report, released on July 22, outlines strategies to enhance access to these medicines. The report identifies key challenges such as stigma, inadequate healthcare workforces, poor drug availability, unaffordable medications, and outdated national medicine lists. Broader issues include limited health system data, supply chain problems, substandard medicines, and weak pharmacovigilance.

The IGAP initiative represents a comprehensive approach to tackling these multifaceted challenges by prioritizing neurological health on a global scale. With the recognition that neurological disorders are not only debilitating but also widespread, affecting millions worldwide, the WHO’s plan emphasizes the urgent need for accessible and effective healthcare solutions. Epilepsy and other neurological disorders impose a heavy burden not only on patients but also on families, caregivers, and healthcare systems, underscoring the importance of IGAP’s objectives.

For many regions, achieving this level of access to neurological medicines will require substantial policy changes and resource allocation. The WHO’s report offers guidance for countries aiming to align their healthcare infrastructure with IGAP’s goals, recommending a combination of strategies tailored to address local healthcare needs and barriers. Through the IGAP framework, WHO aims to foster international collaboration, encouraging countries to share resources and best practices in neurological care, particularly for low- and middle-income regions facing additional barriers.1

Read more here.

References

  1. Neurology, N. L. (2024). Improving access to medicines for neurological disorders. The Lancet Neurology, 23(10), 951. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1474-4422(24)00371-5

Disclaimers

  • The material in these reviews is from various public open-access sources, meant for educational and informational purposes only
  • Any personal opinions expressed are those of only the author(s) and are not intended to represent the position of any organization(s)
  • No official support by any organization(s) has been provided or should be inferred