BTN News: Neurological health is a critical issue that touches every corner of the globe, with an immense impact on individuals and societies alike. According to a comprehensive study published in 2021 by The Lancet Neurology in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 3 billion people worldwide live with a neurological condition. This staggering number highlights the pressing need for increased awareness and understanding of neurological diseases, which the WHO has identified as the leading cause of poor health and disability globally. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking appropriate treatment is essential for improving patient outcomes and maintaining overall well-being.
One particularly alarming statistic from the Foundation for the Coverage of Cerebral Aneurysm (Fucac) underscores the urgency of this issue: every two seconds, someone around the world experiences a stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), brain attack, or stroke. This makes it one of the most common and devastating neurological emergencies.
Among the various neurological conditions, migraines stand out as a particularly common yet debilitating disorder. The WHO identifies migraines as a primary headache disorder, predominantly affecting individuals aged 35 to 45. Alarmingly, around 50% of adults have reported experiencing a headache in the past year, with approximately 30% of these cases being migraines. Characterized by a throbbing or pulsating pain that typically affects one side of the head, migraines can be triggered by a range of factors, including exposure to light, noise, and certain foods. As noted by Dr. Carlos Alexander Alva DÃaz, a neurologist at the Universidad CientÃfica del Sur, these triggers vary from patient to patient, making management and prevention a personalized challenge.
Stress, sleep deprivation, and dietary choices are common culprits behind migraines. Dr. Manuel Moquillaza, a neuroendovascular specialist and coordinator of the Neurology Department at ClÃnica Ricardo Palma, points out that foods such as coffee, chocolate, yellow cheeses, monosodium glutamate (commonly known as ajinomoto), nuts, artificial sweeteners, and grilled meats are frequent triggers. Given that headaches, especially recurring ones, are among the most common nervous system disorders, it is crucial not to underestimate their significance. Dr. Moquillaza advises that severe and treatment-resistant headaches should prompt a visit to a neurologist to rule out other serious conditions like cerebral aneurysms or tumors.
Strokes, or cerebral infarctions, are another major neurological concern, affecting one in four people at some point in their lives and causing over 6.6 million deaths annually. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted, which can happen either due to a blockage in an artery (ischemic stroke) or a rupture in an artery leading to bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The latter is commonly referred to as a brain hemorrhage. Dr. Alva DÃaz explains that the most common symptom of a stroke is sudden weakness on one side of the body. Dr. Pablo Zumaeta, a neurologist at ClÃnica Ricardo Palma, emphasizes the critical importance of immediate medical attention within the first 4.5 hours of symptom onset. This narrow window of time is vital to reduce the risk of death and long-term disabilities, which vary depending on the stroke’s location and severity.
Brain diseases can severely disrupt cognitive function and daily activities, with conditions like dementia posing a significant challenge. Dementia is not just about memory loss; it involves a progressive decline in the ability to perform everyday tasks. Dr. Alva highlights that factors such as hearing loss, low educational attainment, and social isolation in old age are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia.
Preventing neurological diseases is key to maintaining good brain health throughout life. Dr. Alva advises adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, mental stimulation, and strong social connections. Regular check-ups are also crucial, particularly after the age of 40, when it is recommended to undergo cardiometabolic evaluations, cognitive tests, and hearing assessments.
In conclusion, the global burden of neurological disorders is immense, and the need for awareness and prevention has never been more critical. From migraines and strokes to dementia, these conditions have far-reaching consequences for individuals and society. By focusing on prevention, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment, we can work towards reducing the impact of these diseases and improving the quality of life for millions around the world.
