On July 22, World Brain Day is observed and advocates of health care in the affirm that there is a significant need to raise awareness, expedite diagnosis, and improve the availability of services that cater to the needs of brain health. The subject of 2026 is themed “Brain Health and Access for All”.
Various neurological disorders have an impact on people who are of any age. Neurological disorders include migraine, epilepsy, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, neuropathy, brain infections as well as developmental disorders. Whereas some of the neurological problems occur gradually, there are those that require urgent care.
According to Dr Rajul Aggarwal, Director- Neurology, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, “Maintaining brain health cannot only be a matter of concern when you are suffering from some disease. Headaches that don’t seem to end, weakness in the body, drooping on one side of the face, difficulty in speaking, seizures, trouble maintaining balance, and any unusual behavior needs medical evaluation. In case of a stroke, time plays an important role since late treatment causes brain cell damage that cannot be reversed. Visiting a stroke-ready hospital is very important in improving the prospects of recovery and reducing disabilities. Additionally, it is important to keep track of blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.”
There is also a close relationship between neurological health and diseases caused by lifestyles. Diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity can cause a stroke or neurological disorders. Taking health tests on time and monitoring the existing diseases will ensure the prevention of health disorders.
The access to neurology care is not equally spread throughout the nation. People from small towns may avoid seeking medical advice due to a greater number of specialists and medical equipment in larger towns. The situation is such that symptoms are usually overlooked, considered to be signs of aging or stress.
Dr Sonia Lal Gupta, Sr. Consultant Neurologist and Joint Managing Director, Metro Group of Hospitals stated that “Many neurological problems can actually be effectively managed once identified and addressed in their early stages. But there is a reluctance in people to recognize symptoms, visit a physician or even use alternative remedies. Awareness needs to be backed up by diagnostic services, experts, emergency care and facilities for rehabilitation. Telemedicine and better referral systems may assist people living in smaller cities in accessing neurological expertise. But telemedicine should direct the patient to have proper clinical evaluation rather than replace physical examination of symptoms.”
Doctors highlight the significance of the referral system that links general medicine practitioners with local hospitals as well as neurology centers. Referrals are especially important for cases of emergency such as strokes, seizures, brain infections or trauma because waiting for the doctor can adversely affect the outcome of the treatment.
As per Dr Mukund Agrawal, Associate Consultant- Neurology, Regency Hospital, Gorakhpur, “Patients coming from the rural areas of Gorakhpur and neighbouring areas have to travel a long way for getting treatment for their neurological disorders. Delay in treatment can be fatal in cases of stroke, seizures & brain infections. It is crucial for families to know about the closest facility where such treatment facilities are available. Working in coordination with local practitioners, ambulances and specialized hospitals can help reduce treatment time.”
In addition to medical emergencies, maintaining long-term brain health involves making efforts towards healthy living patterns every day. Good sleep, proper diet, physical exercise, and socialization are some of the measures that ensure the wellness of our brain. Wearing helmets and seatbelts prevent head injury in case of road traffic accidents.
According to Dr Animesh Gupta, Consultant-Neurology, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Kanpur, “The brain functions are significantly affected by the routine activities one performs. Physical activity contributes to the proper circulation of blood in the body while the brain needs restorative sleep. It is also important to maintain social contacts and learn new things for proper and good functioning of the mind. Detoxification and abstaining from self-medication will also contribute to the overall well-being of the body and mind.”
Brain health is also linked to mother care, nutrition during childhood years, well-being, injury prevention and the treatment of chronic diseases. Educational institutions, work places and society can help through noticing symptoms, assisting people who have neurological problems and eliminating stigma related to epilepsy, dementia and other neurological conditions.
As per Dr Sricharan V, Associate Consultant – Neurology, SPARSH Hospital, RR Nagar, Bangalore, Advances in neuroimaging, critical care, and minimally invasive treatments have transformed the management of many complex neurological disorders. Early recognition and timely treatment remain the key for achieving the best outcomes. At SPARSH Hospital, we combine advanced neuroimaging technology, experienced neurologists, and comprehensive neurological care—from emergency stroke management to neurorehabilitation—to ensure that quality neurology services are accessible to every patient, regardless of geographical or economic barriers.
A healthy brain needs prevention, recognition, quick reaction when an accident happens and rehabilitation. Improvement of neurological services in areas which are not large metropolitan cities and public education can make sure that more people get proper care.