European Parliament hearing addresses growing burden of neurological diseases in Europe

On 24 February, the European Parliament’s Committee on Public Health (SANT) hosted a public hearing on “Brain health: Policy challenges and opportunities to manage neurological diseases.” The event brought together policymakers, clinicians, researchers, and patient organisations to discuss the growing burden of neurological diseases in Europe and the policy responses needed to address it. 

Neurological diseases are the leading cause of disability and affect roughly one in three people. With Europe’s ageing population, neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are expected to rise significantly in the coming decades, increasing pressure on healthcare systems and caregivers. 

The hearing included expert discussions on both scientific advances and policy cooperation at the European level. The first panel focused on developments in neurological research and neurotechnology, highlighting opportunities to improve diagnosis and treatment. The second panel explored European collaboration on neurological health, particularly in relation to dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. 

Notably, Orla Galvin, Executive Director of the European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA), and Sameer Zuberi, Vice-Chair of the European Brain Council (EBC), participated as speakers in the discussion on European cooperation. Their contributions emphasized the importance of stronger coordination across research, policy, and patient advocacy to improve care pathways and address inequalities in access to diagnosis and treatment across Member States. 

The hearing forms part of the European Parliament’s ongoing work to strengthen Europe’s response to neurological diseases through improved prevention, research collaboration, and more equitable access to care.