Health disparities in neurology

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Health Equity

Background:

• Health disparities are preventable differences in health outcomes linked to social, economic, and environmental factors.
• Neurological disorders are significantly impacted by these disparities, affecting prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for systematically marginalized populations.
• The rising global burden of neurological disorders, coupled with increasing social inequities and limited healthcare access, exacerbates existing health outcome gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the current landscape of neurological health disparities.
• To explore the complex root causes of these disparities, including structural, institutional, and individual factors.
• To highlight effective strategies and interventions for advancing equity in the field of neurology.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes current literature on neurological health disparities.
• It analyzes the multifactorial etiology of these disparities.
• It identifies and discusses interventions aimed at promoting equity in neurological care.

Main Results:

• Neurological health disparities are prevalent and impact all facets of neurological care for marginalized groups.
• The causes of these disparities are complex, stemming from an interplay of societal, institutional, and individual factors.
• Numerous strategies and interventions exist to address and mitigate these inequities.

Conclusions:

• Eliminating health disparities in neurology is essential for improving global neurological health.
• Addressing the root causes of these disparities requires a multifaceted approach.
• Advancing equity in neurology is critical, especially given the rising global burden of neurological disorders and widening social inequities.