The European Academy of Neurology Brain Health Strategy: One brain, one life, one approach

Abstract

Background and purpose: Brain health is essential for health, well-being, productivity and creativity across the entire life. Its definition goes beyond the absence of disease embracing all cognitive, emotional, behavioural and social functions which are necessary to cope with life situations.

Methods: The European Academy of Neurology (EAN) Brain Health Strategy responds to the high and increasing burden of neurological disorders. It aims to develop a non-disease-, non-age-centred holistic and positive approach ('one brain, one life, one approach') to prevent neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, stroke, epilepsy, headache/migraine, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders, brain cancer) but also to preserve brain health and promote recovery after brain damage.

Results: The pillars of the EAN Brain Health Strategy are (1) to contribute to a global and international brain health approach (together with national and subspecialty societies, other medical societies, the World Health Organization, the World Federation of Neurology, patients' organizations, industry and other stakeholders); (2) to support the 47 European national neurological societies, healthcare and policymakers in the implementation of integrated and people-centred campaigns; (3) to foster research (e.g., on prevention of neurological disorders, determinants and assessments of brain health); (4) to promote education of students, neurologists, general practitioners, other medical specialists and health professionals, patients, caregivers and the general public; (5) to raise public awareness of neurological disorders and brain health.

Conclusions: By adopting this 'one brain, one life, one approach' strategy in cooperation with partner societies, international organizations and policymakers, a significant number of neurological disorders may be prevented whilst the overall well-being of individuals is enhanced by maintaining brain health through the life course.

Keywords: brain health; neurology.