Six action steps to address global disparities in Parkinson Disease: a World Health Organization (WHO) priority

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Abstract

The Global Burden of Disease Study conducted between 1990 and 2016, based on a global study of 195 countries and territories, identified Parkinson disease (PD) as the fastest growing neurological disorder when measured using death and disability. Most people affected by PD live in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and experience large inequalities in access to neurological care and essential medicines. The swelling wave in many world regions and the potential costs of PD associated treatment will need to be addressed to prevent possible health service strain. As the world’s population ages and the number of people with PD grows, there is a pressing need for a concerted and robust public health response. The adoption by the 73rd World Health Assembly (WHA) of resolution 73.10 to develop an Intersectoral global action plan on epilepsy and other neurological disorders in consultation with Member States, was the stimulus to coordinate efforts and leverage momentum to advance the agenda of neurological conditions such as PD. In April 2021 the Brain Health Unit at WHO convened a multidisciplinary, gender balanced, international Consultation workshop which identified six workable avenues for action within the domains of: (1) disease burden; (2) advocacy and awareness; (3) prevention and risk reduction; (4) diagnosis, treatment, and care; (5) carer support and (6) research. Across the board, governments, multilateral agencies, donors, public-health organizations and healthcare professionals constitute potential stake holders who are urged to make this a priority.

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Contributors

Author: Natasha Fothergill-Misbah

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