Brain Health for People of All Ages

At an event held in Istanbul on 22 July for World Brain Day, emphasis was placed on the need to protect brain health at every stage of life. In a programme led by the Turkish Neurological Society, early diagnosis in neurological diseases, preventable risks and equal access to health services were addressed in light of scientific data.

The awareness event organized by the Turkish Neurological Society on 22 July World Brain Day under the theme "Brain Health at All Ages" set by the World Federation of Neurology took place at Prof. Dr. Mazhar Osman Mental Health and Nervous Diseases Hospital in Istanbul Bakırköy.

At the opening of the event, hospital Chief Physician Doç. Dr. Mustafa Nuray Namlı, emphasizing the 101-year history of Bakırköy, said: "Neurology and psychiatry are sciences that progress together. In this established institution we serve with three separate neurology departments. We are pleased to host this meaningful event on our 101st anniversary." Namlı also noted that they are preparing a textbook as a neurology clinic and will present this book to the public soon. World Brain Day, celebrated every 22 July, this year draws attention to the theme "Brain Health for People of All Ages," highlighting that brain health needs to be protected and supported at every period of life. Organized under the auspices of the World Federation of Neurology (WFN), this special day aims to raise public awareness and emphasize the importance of early intervention against neurological diseases.

At the event, data was shared on how brain health is shaped at every stage of life, prevention of neurological diseases and healthy ageing. While emphasizing that brain health is not limited to old age alone, the importance of supporting brain health at all stages of life from the prenatal period to advanced age was addressed from various perspectives. At the event, which stressed the importance of promoting healthy lifestyle habits, it was underlined that protecting brain health throughout life is a fundamental requirement for both individual and public health.

Neurological diseases are among those most affecting public health
According to World Federation of Neurology (WFN) data, neurological diseases rank among the disease groups most affecting public health worldwide and are the second leading cause of death. These diseases affect not only life expectancy but also significantly impact individuals' quality of life. Prof. Dr. Murat Terzi, Chairman of the Turkish Neurological Society, speaking at the event, said: "It is a great pleasure to be together with our valued mentors in this clinic, which is similar in age to the Republic. Bakırköy is an important centre in neurology with its historical mission and the specialists it has trained. We are working towards accrediting clinics. As an association, we place great importance on research and development. We attach importance to every specialist feeling sufficiently equipped both theoretically and practically.

Neurological diseases are among the leading causes of years lived with disability and inability to live a healthy and independent life. When assessed according to the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) measure, this is a public health priority that concerns not only individuals but also families and health systems closely.
Furthermore, misinformation about neurological diseases in society is quite widespread. Yet the vast majority of these diseases can be prevented and treated through early diagnosis and preventive measures. Globally, one in three people encounters neurological conditions such as dementia or stroke during their lifetime. It is necessary to pay attention to brain health starting from pregnancy. We value brain health at every age. In this field we are working with neurologists on digital technologies and artificial intelligence solutions. The Turkish Neurological Society will continue to provide support in research and development, education, social contribution and leadership."

Brain health begins before birth
At the event, it was emphasized that parental health and habits in the period before pregnancy and the mother's physical and mental condition after pregnancy and childbirth play a critical role in brain development; safe environments, vaccinations and positive parenting in early childhood and adolescence support brain health in the long term. In her speech, Doç. Dr. Gökçen Gözübatık Çelebi stated: "Equal access to neurological care for everyone is fundamental. Starting from pregnancy, factors such as exercise, sleep routine and stress management are important. For brain health, it is highly important that childhood and adolescence are spent in good health. In order to manage our brain health, we must first protect it."

Early Diagnosis in Neurological Diseases is Highly Important
Another important message frequently emphasized at the event was that a large proportion of neurological diseases are preventable and treatable with early diagnosis. Turkish Neurological Society Board Member Doç. Dr. Füsun Domaç, drawing attention to World Federation of Neurology (WFN) data, said: "Globally, there are 3.1 neurologists per 100,000 people. 3.4 billion people have experienced nervous system health loss. Neurological diseases can be prevented through early diagnosis and effective management. Brain health should be defined as a fundamental human right."
Neurological diseases encompass many diverse conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke (paralysis), migraine and neuromuscular diseases. With early diagnosis, regular neurology check-ups and appropriate treatment options in these diseases, conditions can be brought under control. Early diagnosis not only improves the individual's quality of life but also reduces the burden on health systems. For this reason, regular health check-ups, not overlooking existing complaints and raising public awareness on this issue are of great importance.

Brain health is the foundation of individual and societal welfare
Protecting brain health is of great importance for individuals of all ages to lead a quality life. Supporting cognitive and physical functions from early stages of life can provide a protective effect against neurological diseases in advanced age.

A New Perspective on Brain Health with Artificial Intelligence
Today, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are increasingly used in monitoring brain health and early diagnosis of neurological diseases. In areas such as brain imaging analysis, interpretation of EEG-EMG data and symptom recognition systems, artificial intelligence provides valuable information to neurologists, enhancing the effectiveness of clinical decision support systems. These developments pave the way for more personalized and rapid approaches to protecting brain health in the future.

A Healthy Brain at Every Age is Possible
Brain health should be carefully protected not only in advanced age but also during childhood and youth. Balanced nutrition, regular sleep, physical activity, mental exercise, social interaction and stress management are factors that positively affect brain health at every age. Furthermore, protection from risk factors such as digital addiction, smoking and substance use is particularly important for young individuals.
World Brain Day is a powerful call for raising public awareness so that individuals of all ages can live with a healthy brain, promoting early diagnosis, using new technologies effectively and spreading preventive health practices.