The World Health Organization Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders and the headache revolution: from headache burden to a global action plan for headache disorders

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders was developed by WHO to address the worldwide challenges and gaps in provision of care and services for people with epilepsy and other neurological disorders and to ensure a comprehensive, coordinated response across sectors to the burden of neurologic diseases and to promote brain health across life-course. Headache disorders constitute the second most burdensome of all neurological diseases after stroke, but the first if young and midlife adults are taken into account. Despite the availability of a range of treatments, disability associated with headache disorders, and with migraine, remains very high. In addition, there are inequalities between high-income and low and middle income countries in access to medical care. In line with several brain health initiatives following the WHOiGAP resolution, herein we tailor the main pillars of the action plan to headache disorders: (1) raising policy prioritization and strengthen governance; (2) providing effective, timely and responsive diagnosis, treatment and care; (3) implementing strategies for promotion and prevention; (4) fostering research and innovation and strengthen information systems. Specific targets for future policy actions are proposed. The Global Action Plan triggered a revolution in neurology, not only by increasing public awareness of brain disorders and brain health but also by boosting the number of neurologists in training, raising research funding and making neurology a public health priority for policy makers. Reducing the burden of headache disorders will not only improve the quality of life and wellbeing of people with headache but also reduce the burden of neurological disorders increasing global brain health and, thus, global population health.

The Nursing Role in the Management of Medication Overuse Headache: Realities and Prospects

“…In the same period, Leonardi, on behalf of a large staff of experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), developed an operational plan to intervene in specific areas, including headaches [ 71 ].…”

“…The possible roles of nursing are reported in strategic objective 2: improving outcomes for cephalagic patients will mainly depend on the better organization of primary care, whether provided by general practitioners, clinicians, pharmacists or nurses. However, it is important to underline the urgency of this intervention [ 71 ].…”

“…The chance to act is here and now: achieving this aim means improving the health and well-being of people with headaches. The headache revolution has already begun and must go on” [ 71 ].…”

A Case of Headache Treated by Online Telemedicine in Collaboration With a Midwifery Home

“…Although online telemedicine was initially initiated through this process, it is now being used in specialty outpatient clinics such as headache outpatient clinics [ 4 , 5 ]. The safety and effectiveness of virtual consultations for primary headaches are comparable to those of in-person consultations [ 6 ].…”