A new study has revealed that one in two people in the United States is affected by a neurological disease or disorder, which is over 180 million people across the country. The study conducted by the American Academy of Neurology and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation was published in JAMA Neurology. These conditions represent the leading cause of decreased well-being and quality of life.
The Big Picture
Data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease Study—the largest effort to understand health challenges facing people across the world—found that:
- 54% of Americans (more than one in two people) had at least one neurological condition in 2021
- The most common conditions are:
These diseases and disorders can have a major impact on independence and quality of life for people living with the conditions and their loved ones, care partners, and community.
Why It Matters
“Disorders of the nervous system are highly prevalent and cause disability for millions of Americans,” said John P. Ney, MD, MPH, FAAN, of Yale University, one of the study’s authors. “Healthy brain, spinal cord, and nerve function allows for greater participation in employment, relationships, and improved quality of life. Increasing access to neurological and disability care could have substantial benefits for people across the United States.”
The study measured “disability-adjusted life-years,” which combine years lost to early death and years lived with disability. Conditions with the greatest collective health loss are:
These numbers represent real people whose lives can be improved through prevention, early detection, and easier access to the care they need.
What Can You Do?
- Pay attention to symptoms: Frequent headaches, memory changes, and feelings of numbness or weakness should be taken seriously.
- Talk to a doctor: Neurological conditions can be managed or treated with the help of a neurologist or trained medical professional.
- Maximize brain health: Exercise regularly, follow a healthy diet, and assess your modifiable risk factors such as high cholesterol, sedentary habits, obesity, and diabetes.
- Advocate for equity: Many factors like socioeconomic status, education, and access to medical care affect brain health.
The American Academy of Neurology calls this report “an urgent call to action” to invest in research, prevention, and equitable care.
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