Neurology - Featured Writers (6)
Featured Writer (1) : Vanessa Munguia, California, USA
Neurology is the branch of medicine, the core of the body that holds all the instructions of our thoughts and actions. It has such a strong control over our bodies that even a subconscious mind can dictate our personality . I am drawn to neurology because of the core and its complex phenomena of neurons, connections, dreams, and mental disorders. In other words, it contributes to a better understanding of a wide range of common conditions. Moreover, this area of the human body holds the structure of human actions, feelings, memories and much more. Also, neurology requires not only knowledge and other skills, but also empathy, patience, and a commitment to everlasting knowledge. Additionally, the field is rapidly evolving within other fields and has advanced in genetics, neuroimaging, molecular biology, disorder treatments, bioengineering surgery and much more. These advancements help neurologists understand neurological disorders, which will lead to new treatments and knowledge in all areas within science. The idea of having the opportunity to contribute to this expanding body of knowledge, and unique universal language; is both exciting and humbling. Within neurology, the blend of science, technolog, and skills; offers a fulfilling career full of challenges. This will give neurologists the chance to make an impact on other lives by developing medical and brain advancements with research. Furthermore, the nature of neurobiology allows experts to draw information from biology, chemistry, physiology, psychology, and more; to apply that information to the human brain. Thies field has impacted my perspective in overall biology, it has made me more curious than ever, and makes me eager to learn more in life
Featured Writer (2) : Epsita Kundu, Bangladesh
NEUROLOGY
Neurologists specialise in disorders of the autonomic nervous system, brain, muscles, peripheral nerves, spinal cord, and associated blood vessels. They handle serious neurological issues, often related to chronic pain, and may serve as consultants or primary care providers. Neurological conditions include infections like meningitis, seizures, and peripheral nerve diseases. According to the World Health Organization, one in six people worldwide has a neurological disorder. Pediatric neurologists focus on children's conditions.
PSYCHOLOGY
Psychology plays a vital role in healthcare. Clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists assist patients in managing the emotional challenges associated with illness and trauma. They also conduct research on stress and its impact on health, promote healthy lifestyles, and offer support to families facing caregiving difficulties.
The work of a psychologist can vary widely, from counselling individuals dealing with anxiety to advising organizations on how to create more effective teams.
DISTINCTION BETWEEN NEUROLOGY AND PSYCHIATRY
Neurologists focus on nervous system disorders, while psychiatrists address mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Neuropsychiatric disorders may exhibit both neurological and psychiatric symptoms, necessitating integrated treatment approaches. For example, Alzheimer's can present cognitive decline and behavioural changes, while Parkinson's may lead to emotional challenges.
While both neurologists and psychiatrists can prescribe medication, their treatment approaches differ. Neurologists often use physiotherapy and surgery for conditions like epilepsy or neurodegenerative disorders. Psychiatrists focus on psychotherapy to address mental and emotional issues, such as depression and anxiety. Although both may prescribe medication, their contexts and purposes vary, reflecting their different areas of expertise.
CITATIONS
Admin. (2024, April 10). Neurological vs Psychological – A Closer Look at Neurologists and Psychiatrists. Brain and Spine Specialists. https://brainandspinecenterllc.com/2024/03/21/neurological-vs-psychological-a-closer-look/
Pronet Studio. (2023, November 20). The role of psychology in humanising medicine: Understanding and supporting patients - Humanising medicine. Humanisation of Medicine. https://www.humanizacjamedycyny.pl/en/6202/role-psychology-in-humanising-medicine-understanding-and-supporting-patients/
Ross University School of Medicine. (2024, November 21). What is a neurologist? Specialization & career paths. Ross University School of Medicine. https://medical.rossu.edu/about/blog/what-is-a-neurologist
Brazier, Y. (2018, February 1). What is psychology and what does it involve? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/154874#what-is-psychology
PICTURES:
Peter Pressman, MD. (2024, January 23). What is a neurologist? Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/do-you-need-a-neurologist-a2-2488766
Domains in Psychology | Introduction to Psychology. (n.d.). https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-hvcc-psychology-1/chapter/outcome-contemporary-fields-in-psychology/
Featured Writer (3) : Tanvi Nair, Austrailia
Global Disparities in Neurology: Neurology is essential to the healthcare system as it focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders of the brain and nervous system, which are vital for overall well-being. It addresses prevalent conditions like stroke, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease, improving patient outcomes significantly. Neurologists contribute to crucial research that leads to breakthroughs and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care. Since neurological disorders impact disability and healthcare costs, addressing these issues enhances public health.
Despite the vitality of neurology in the healthcare system, more than 80% of deaths and health issues related to neurological conditions happen in low- and middle-income nations, with treatment accessibility differing significantly. In high-income countries, there can be as many as 70 times more neurological specialists per 100,000 individuals compared to their low- and middle-income counterparts. Additionally, within high-income countries, disparities based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status continue to affect access to healthcare and health outcomes. For instance, stroke morbidity is significantly greater in underserved areas, underscoring the critical need for equitable healthcare measures.
A recent study by The Lancet Neurology revealed that over 3 billion people worldwide lived with a neurological condition in 2021, making these conditions the leading cause of ill health and disability. Key neurological conditions contributing to health loss include stroke, neonatal encephalopathy, and dementia. The absolute number of individuals affected has risen since 1990, largely due to demographic changes, while conditions like diabetic neuropathy have tripled globally. The World Health Organization's Intersectoral Global Action Plan 2022–2031 aims to improve prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of neurological disorders, highlighting the need to eliminate modifiable risk factors and enhance access to care.
References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1474442219304119
Featured Writer (4) : Alishba Abbasi, UAE
Bridging Gaps in Global Neurological Care
Neurology is a vast field that studies and treats various diseases related to the nervous system. To provide adequate care in such sensitive situations doctors frequently have to collaborate with others to enhance treatment. However, sometimes the process can be hindered by setbacks, which are consistent worldwide and can occasionally prevent such care. As of right now, the WHO states that neurological conditions are the leading cause of disability worldwide.
There are various interlinked reasons for this, including a lack of understanding, misconceptions, and stigma around conditions, this leads people to avoid seeking help and may create distrust between doctors and patients. Moreover, some healthcare systems possess a poorer capability to identify and treat illnesses, and access to medicines is not always easy. This is especially true as over 80% of neurological deaths and health losses occur in low- and middle-income nations. Still, high-income countries have up to 70 times more neurological professionals per 100,000 people.
Also, managing neurological diseases during global crises like COVID-19 was challenging due to public reluctance to seek help, poor mental health, and reduced clinical services. Medication shortages also occurred as resources were primarily directed towards COVID-19 prevention and care. By spring 2023, many reflected on the pandemic as a significant learning experience, prompting the community to consider how to handle similar situations in the future.
Featured Writer (5) : Gautami Gumpena, Maryland, USA
The Global Neurology Crisis: Addressing the Burden of Neurological Disorders
Imagine waking up one morning and finding that your ability to speak, move, or even recognize loved ones is slipping away. This is the reality for millions of people suffering from neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy. Around the world, one in six people lives with a neurological condition, and the number is only rising. It’s a growing global health crisis that demands urgent attention and action.
In many countries, the challenge isn’t just the diseases themselves, but the stark inequality in healthcare access. While patients in wealthier nations might have access to the latest treatments, individuals in low- and middle-income countries often lack even basic care. In some regions, people with epilepsy may not have access to life-saving medications, and those suffering from conditions like Alzheimer's may only be diagnosed in the late stages, when treatment options are limited and the damage is already done. These delays in diagnosis and treatment result in preventable suffering and loss of life.
Adding to this burden is the aging global population. As more people live longer, age-related neurological diseases like dementia and Parkinson’s are becoming more prevalent. It’s essential that we prioritize early detection, better treatments, and long-term support, especially for vulnerable populations. The cost of ignoring this issue is too high—both in human terms and economic ones.
But there is hope. By improving healthcare infrastructure, investing in research, and promoting global collaboration, we can reduce the burden of these diseases. Let’s make sure that no one, no matter where they live, is left behind in the fight for better neurological care.
Works Cited
World Health Organization (WHO) - For global health data on neurological diseases and related public health strategies.
Website: www.who.int
Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) - For statistics and information on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease globally.
Website: www.alz.co.uk
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) - For information on various neurological conditions and their impact worldwide.
Website: www.ninds.nih.gov
Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) - A comprehensive global study providing data on the burden of neurological diseases and other health conditions.
Website: www.healthdata.org
Featured Writer (6) : Esin Kecheji, Canada
Global Neurology; The Urgent Need for Equitable Brain Health Care
Neurological disorders, the leading cause of disease and disability worldwide, are a growing global crisis. With a growing population, genetic disorders and an aging population, brain diseases are more critical than ever. A major new study published by The Lancet Neurology shows that in 2021, more than 43% of the world's population (3.4 billion people) will be affected by a neurological condition. The overall amount of disability, morbidity and premature death caused by neurological conditions has increased by 18% since 1990 (World Health Organization, 2024).
Although there is no cure for all neurological diseases, treatments such as medications, assistive devices and surgery are used in many parts of the world for early detection of neurological diseases but such treatments require high budgets, while many countries around the world have low incomes. In low- and middle-income countries, millions of people suffer from treatable neurological conditions without proper diagnosis or care. More than 80% of neurological deaths and health losses occur in low- and middle-income countries, and access to treatment varies widely: High-income countries have up to 70 times more neurologists per 100,000 people than low- and middle-income countries (World Health Organization, 2024). Shortages of neurologists, lack of public awareness and expensive medicines further exacerbate the situation, leaving individuals more vulnerable.
Alzheimer's disease is a brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and ultimately the ability to perform the simplest tasks (Alzheimer's disease fact sheet | National Institute on Aging 2024). People worldwide develop Alzheimer's disease every three seconds. In 2020, more than 55 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer's disease. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's require urgent research funding and early intervention programs to reduce their devastating impact. There are no affordable medicines to treat Alzheimer's, a neurological disease that is very difficult to detect early. The latest research into potential treatments for such globally common neurological diseases is promising, but accessibility to these innovations must be prioritized globally.
A global effort is needed to close the crisis in this area of neurological diseases. Increased research into neurological diseases, the introduction of affordable drug therapies and, most importantly, increased awareness of the brain field are essential steps in closing the crisis.
A world where everyone in the world has access to treatment for neurological diseases is not impossible, but it is a goal worth striving for and making our voices heard. Working together, we can alert people to the issue and ensure that individuals are not left behind in the pursuit of better brain health. With collective effort, the advancement of neurology can be a future full of hope, healing and progress.
Meet the Author: Esin Kecheji - Senior
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