Life span policies and macroeconomic transition will help the 21st-century brain health revolution in developing countries

Abstract

In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued the Intersectoral Global Action Plan for Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders for 2022 to 2031, emphasizing important connections between brain health, population well-being, and economic growth. A year later, the WHO followed up with strategic guidelines aimed at enhancing brain health outcomes in developing countries. However, critical gaps remain. Our policy forum paper advocates for policies that target brain health across all stages of life, starting with measures to reduce the consumption of alcohol, sugar, and tobacco. Additionally, we propose the integration of school meal programs and social pension schemes as essential lifespan policies to safeguard brain health. To support these policies, developing countries must implement key macroeconomic reforms. These include revising international trade agreements, strengthening tax systems, curbing illicit financial flows, eliminating financial exclusions, and expanding social welfare systems. Such reforms are critical for creating an environment that supports long-term brain health initiatives.

Highlights

• The are critical gaps in the WHO policy framework for brain health.
• We advocate policies that target brain health across all stages of life, starting with measures to reduce alcohol, sugar, and tobacco consumption.
• Additionally, we propose integrating school meal programs and social pension schemes as essential lifespan policies to safeguard brain health.
• To support these policies, developing countries must implement key macroeconomic reforms.
• By adopting these measures, developing countries can lead the charge in advancing the 21st-century brain health agenda, fostering both societal well-being and sustainable economic development.