World Federation of Neurology (WFN) marks World Brain Day 2025 with the publication of “Brain Health for All Ages: A Global Call to Action” in The Lancet.
Co-authored by WFN President and Trustees—Professors Wolfgang Grisold, David W. Dodick, Alla Guekht, Steven Lewis, and Tissa Wijeratne—this publication is a timely and powerful appeal to make brain health a global public health priority across every stage of life.
The article highlights a stark reality: neurological disorders now account for 43% of the global burden of disease, with the greatest impact seen in low- and middle-income countries. This burden varies significantly by income, region, and age groups, and underlines the urgent need for fair access to neurological care and prevention worldwide.
A New Vision: People-Centred Brain Health
The authors propose a bold new approach to neurological care—an inverted pyramid that places patients, families, and the broader public at the top of the pyramid, and supported by accessible information, community health workers, and integrated health systems. Specialist societies and policymakers must support and strengthen this community-first approach—not overshadow it.
This is a defining moment for our field. Brain health is not a luxury; it is a necessity for individuals, communities, and economies everywhere,
This publication reinforces the message of our campaign: from preconception to old age, brain health must be protected, prioritised, and promoted. We must act now—together—to reduce suffering and build a healthier future for all.
Professor Tissa Wijeratne, Co-Chair of World Brain Day 2025 and WFN Trustee.
Global Campaigns Backed by Data and Action
The article aligns closely with the theme of World Brain Day 2025—“Brain Health for All Ages”—which promotes brain health throughout the entire lifespan. It builds upon insights from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, which emphasised:
- The increasing impact of neurological disorders with age.
- The disproportionate burden on underserved populations.
- The pressing need for prevention, early intervention, and sustained support at all life stages.
“Brain health must be embedded into national health strategies and development agendas.
This is a call to the global neurology community to act, collaborate, and lead.
Professor Wolfgang Grisold, WFN President.
A Call to the Global Neurology and Public Health Communities
As neurological conditions continue to rise globally, this article is more than just a statement—it is a roadmap. It urges clinicians, health workers, civil society, and dexcision-makers to embrace a holistic, inclusive, and equitable vision of brain health.
The WFN encourages all individuals and organisations committed to neurological health to read, reflect on, and share this important article. Together, we can build systems that prevent disease, reduce disability, and promote lifelong brain health—for everyone, everywhere.
WHO supports brain health through programmes linked to its 10-year intersectoral global action plan, which is supported by all 194 member countries. The UN Economic and Social Council also recognises the importance of brain health and participates in World Brain Day, hosted annually on July 22 by the World Federation of Neurology.
Read the full article in The Lancet:
“Brain Health for All Ages: A Global Call to Action” ⧉
Learn more about World Brain Day 2025:
www.wfneurology.org/world-brain-day-2025 ⧉
Contact: info@wfneurology.org
#WorldBrainDay | #BrainHealthForAllAges | #WFN | #GlobalNeurology