Health experts urge EU neurological strategy during Ireland's presidency

Health experts and policymakers have united in Dublin to advocate for a comprehensive European neurological health strategy. The call to action coincided with World Brain Day, with participants urging Ireland, which holds the current EU Presidency, to prioritize this critical issue.

Neurological conditions impact a significant portion of the population, with approximately 860,000 individuals in Ireland living with such conditions. This number is projected to rise due to an aging population. Magdalen Rogers, Chief Executive of the Neurological Alliance of Ireland, emphasized the need for the Irish presidency to champion a European strategy, stating it would bolster healthcare systems, accelerate research, and improve the lives of millions.

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it would strengthen healthcare systems, accelerate research and innovation and ultimately improve the lives of millions of people.

The meeting also marked the launch of the Declaration on Advancing Neurological Health during Ireland's EU Presidency. Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, highlighted the importance of establishing an EU framework to address neurological conditions. These conditions represent the third leading cause of disability and premature death across the European Union, underscoring the urgency of coordinated action.

The proposed strategy aims to strengthen healthcare systems by fostering collaboration and resource sharing across member states. It seeks to accelerate research and innovation by promoting joint projects and funding opportunities, ultimately leading to better diagnostics, treatments, and support for patients. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the substantial burden neurological diseases place on individuals, families, and healthcare systems throughout Europe.

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it was important to get an EU framework on the area of neurological conditions.