report from the EAN Environmental Influences in Neurology Task Force
A new paper from the EAN Environmental Influences in Neurology Task Force highlights the links between climate change, neurological health and brain health, and sets out priorities for action within neurology.
Climate change is increasingly recognised as a major threat to human health, yet its impact on the nervous system remains incompletely understood. In a new review published in the European Journal of Neurology, the EAN Environmental Influences in Neurology Task Force examines the relationship between climate change, neurological disorders and brain health, while outlining key areas where the neurological community can take action.
Climate change can affect health through rising temperatures, air pollution, extreme weather events and changes in the distribution of infectious diseases, among other factors. Emerging evidence suggests that these environmental changes may affect neurological health and contribute to the burden of neurological disorders. At the same time, important knowledge gaps remain, highlighting the need for further research.
The paper also highlights an important challenge for healthcare: while health systems need to respond to the health consequences of climate change, healthcare itself contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Neurology therefore has a role both in understanding these effects and in making neurological care more sustainable and resilient.
This work is closely aligned with the EAN-led Brain Health Mission, which recognises environmental factors as an important determinant of brain health. Through this work, the EAN Environmental Influences in Neurology Task Force aims to raise awareness, strengthen knowledge and support action within the neurological community.
The message is clear: climate change is increasingly relevant to neurology, and the neurological community has an important role to play in protecting brain health and preparing for future challenges.
Read the full article: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ene.70687
