The European Academy of Neurology Brain Health Strategy: One Brain, One Life, One Approach.

Abstract

BACKGROUND

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 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) Contribute to a global and international Brain Health approach (together with national and subspecialty societies, other medical societies, WHO, WFN, patients' organizations, industry, and other stakeholders); 2) Supporting the 47 European national societies, healthcare and policymakers in the implementation of integrated and people-centred campaigns; 3) Fostering Research (e.g. on prevention of neurological disorders, determinants and assessments of brain health), 4) Promoting Education of students, neurologists, general practitioners, other medical specialists and health professionals, patients, caregivers, and general public; 5) Raising 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 organisations, and policymakers, a significant number of neurological disorders may be prevented while enhancing the overall well-being of individuals by maintaining brain health through the life course.