The European Academy of Neurology (EAN), with the coordination of the European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA) and the European Brain Council (EBC), participated in an event in the European Parliament which aimed to raise awareness about brain and neurological diseases. EAN was represented by its President, Professor Claudio Bassetti, and past-President Professor Guenther Deuschl who both presented the extensive work EAN is doing, tackling the burden of disease as well as the education and training of workforce in the field of neurology. Joke Jaarsma, President of EFNA represented the European patient associations in neurology and Fred Destrebecq, CEO of EBC, chaired the meeting.
The event was hosted by Jaroslaw Duda MEP (Poland, EPP), while several other MEPs were present and supported the cause, including Ewa Kopacz MEP (Vice-President of the European Parliament, EPP), Miriam Dalli MEP (Vice-Chair of the S&D political group in the European Parliament), Katerina Konecna MEP (GUE/NGL) and Tilly Metz MEP (Greens). Speakers and participants included the WHO, the European Commission, representatives of Member States and other relevant stakeholders representing patient and professional organisations.
Some of the focal points of the event were:
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The WHO’s work on its Neurology Atlas, Global Dementia Action Plan and reducing the epilepsy treatment gap were highlighted. The main challenge identified was the transposition of this progress into policy actions at Member State and EU levels.
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Professor Bassetti of EAN, called for joint forces on all levels and for an EU initiative for brain health awareness.
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Speakers also called for more EU coordination on science and research on brain diseases and access to health services. The European “Beating cancer plan” outlined by the European Commission was put forward as an example and blueprint for future action on neurological diseases.
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The significant gap in brain health investment and a mismatch of funding for different categories of diseases.
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The European Commission, DG Sante, reiterated its commitment to the UN’s sustainable development goals and its close work with the European Member States.
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DG Research reminded delegates that Horizon 2020 is still running, and that an ambitious plan for brain research could potentially be developed by 2023-24.
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Overall, it was agreed that neurological diseases should be an EU priority as well as at national level; there is need for more visibility and general understanding, as well as more patient involvement, which is crucial to identify unmet needs and fight stigma.
