World Brain Day commemorated

AS World Brain Day is commemorated today (Wednesday), a spotlight is shone on the neurological health of citizens of African countries, their limited access to neurological treatment and the impact of under-diagnosed neurological diseases.

According to experts in the field, African countries have far fewer neurologists (0.03/100 000 people) compared with high income countries (4.84/100 000 people).

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Fewer than 50% of sub-Saharan African countries have a neurological society.

Crude estimates show that South Africa has one neurology service provider per 400 000 people in the field.

This year’s World Brain Day is dedicated to raising awareness of Parkinson’s Disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects multiple regions of the brain and produces the most known symptoms of tremors, slowness, stiffness and problems with walking and balance.

The cause of the disease remains largely unknown, and while there are some highly effective treatment options, there is no cure.

Owing to many African countries being overburdened by other illnesses such as TB, HIV/Aids and malaria, only 12.5% of Africans suffering from

Parkinson’s Disease have access to medication.

This is compared with 79% of citizens of European countries having access to medication and treatment.

According to Dr Patty Francis, president of the Neurology Association of South Africa (NASA), while the distinctive symptom of Parkinson’s include shaking and slowness of movement, the disease also affects sleep and cognitive ability, causes pain and gastrointestinal issues, provokes anxiety and depression, reduces motivation and quality of life.

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Early diagnosis and access to effective treatment are vital to help patients find relief and enhance their quality of life.

‘Parkinson’s Disease affects more than seven million people around the globe – almost equivalent to the entire population of New York City,’ said Professor Tissa Wijerante, World Brain Day chairperson.

‘Our goal is to raise awareness about Parkinson’s Disease and its impact on society in an effort to improve access to quality neurological care and life-changing treatment.’

To advocate for patients, World Brain Day is spreading awareness by asking people all over the world to ‘Move together to end Parkinson’s Disease’ through the use of the hashtags #WorldBrainDay and #WBD2020.

‘Brain health has never been more vital or relevant,’ said World Federation of Neurology president, Professor William Carroll.

‘When the world unites against this crippling movement disorder on World Brain Day, we will demonstrate the power of advocacy and awareness.’

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