Renowned neurophysician and President of the Epilepsy Foundation of Pakistan, Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui, emphasized the crucial need to adopt lifelong brain health habits on the occasion of World Brain Day. She reminded everyone that while the heart sustains life, the brain gives it purpose. Dr. Siddiqui stressed that maintaining cognitive well-being is a continuous endeavor, spanning from prenatal development to the end of life. She highlighted the importance of neurological well-being across all age groups, from infants to senior citizens.
Dr. Siddiqui issued a stern warning against neglecting brain well-being, urging proactive measures akin to daily dental hygiene. She promoted cognitive well-being not as a privilege, but as a fundamental human right, accessible through awareness, preventive strategies, and treatment. She pointed out that neurological disorders are a leading driver of disability globally, many of which are preventable or manageable through timely diagnosis.
Dr. Siddiqui identified psychological, emotional, and cognitive well-being as the cornerstones of brain health. On World Brain Day, she reiterated that healthy minds contribute to thriving societies. She clarified that while aging is not a barrier to brain health, inactivity is. She explained that this year’s World Brain Day theme, “Brain health is a human right at every age,” is a call to action globally.
Brain health, often overlooked until a disorder arises, is a vital yet under-recognized aspect of overall health. Neurological disorders are now a leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, dementia, migraine, mental health issues, and developmental brain disorders impact individuals throughout their lives.