New stats suggest 2 in 5 people worldwide are experiencing some sort of neurological disorder. 

Conditions affecting the nervous system are the leading cause of poor health and disability globally, according to international researchers who say 43 per cent of the world's population were impacted in some way in 2021. 

The burden of neurological disorders on global health is substantial, with a new study finding 443 million years of healthy life lost due to illness, disability, and premature death in 2021 alone. 

This surpasses the impact of cardiovascular diseases.

Among the conditions, strokes and neonatal encephalopathy (brain injury) were identified as the leading causes of neurological health loss, followed closely by migraines, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage). 

The study also found that over 80 per cent of the deaths and health loss attributable to neurological conditions occur in low- and middle-income countries.

Experts note an alarming rise in diabetic neuropathy, with cases more than tripling since 1990. This trend mirrors the global increase in diabetes prevalence, marking a significant area of concern for health professionals.

The researchers say prevention must be a cornerstone of addressing the global challenge posed by neurological disorders. By identifying and mitigating risk factors, such as high systolic blood pressure and lead exposure, a significant proportion of the global disease burden from these conditions could be prevented.

As the number of individuals affected by neurological disorders continues to rise, experts say the need for increased investment in research, prevention, and treatment strategies becomes ever more pressing.