Nearly 470 million people across North and South America are living with at least one neurological disorder, according to a new report by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), a regional office of the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The study, published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas, found that neurological conditions such as migraine, stroke, epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease affect about two in five people in the region.
Researchers said although age-adjusted death rates have declined since 1990, more people are living longer with these conditions, increasing the need for rehabilitation, long-term care and support services.
The report identified significant disparities across countries, with Haiti, Guyana and Suriname recording the highest burden, while Colombia, Peru and Argentina had the lowest.
PAHO said many neurological disorders could be prevented by addressing risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, tobacco use and environmental pollution.
The researchers called for stronger prevention efforts, improved access to diagnosis and treatment, and greater investment in rehabilitation and long-term care to reduce disability and improve quality of life.
