Koko Maxwella 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that neurological disorders kill more than 11 million people annually, calling for urgent global action to improve brain health.
In a report published Tuesday, WHO said neurological conditions — including stroke, Alzheimer’s, migraine, epilepsy, and meningitis — affect over three billion people, accounting for 40% of global health conditions.
“Many of these disorders can be prevented or treated, yet access to care remains limited,” said WHO assistant director-general Jeremy Farrar. “We must do all we can to ensure brain health for everyone.”
The report found that low-income countries have 80 times fewer neurologists than high-income ones, leaving millions without diagnosis or treatment.
“Without action, the burden of neurological disorders will continue to rise,” WHO warned, urging governments to invest in specialised care, carer support, and anti-stigma campaigns.
Currently, only 63 countries have national neurological policies, and just 34 allocate funding. The agency stressed that poor research funding, especially in developing regions, is crippling policy development.
“Brain health is central to human well-being,” WHO said, calling on nations to prioritise it through sustained investment and access to quality care.
WHO Sounds Alarm as Neurological Disorders Kill 11m Yearly
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Mirian Gom 
Chukwu Obinna