Brain Health: Access for All

Today, ESICM joins the global community in celebrating World Brain Day, a worldwide initiative led by the World Federation of Neurology (WFN).

This year’s theme, “Brain Health: Access for All,” highlights the urgent need to ensure that everyone, everywhere has access to timely, equitable, and high-quality neurological care. With more than 3.4 billion people living with neurological conditions worldwide, improving access to brain health services has never been more important.

In intensive care, protecting the brain is a priority. As Dr. Geert Meyfroidt aptly reminds us, “Intensivists can replace the function of every organ except the brain.” The brain is unique, and regardless of the underlying condition—whether acute brain injury, stroke, delirium, the effects of sedation, or recovery after critical illness—preserving neurological function remains central to patient care.

On this World Brain Day, ESICM reaffirms its commitment to advancing education, research, and global collaboration to improve neuro-intensive care and help ensure that every critically ill patient has the best possible neurological outcome.