Neurology in developing countries - A population perspective

Neurology was first recognized as a specialty in several developing countries in the early 1950s. Measured by disability-adjusted life years, neurologic diseases account for nearly 20% of all health problems in established market economies.(1) The burden of neurologic illness is higher in the developing regions of the world. To reduce this burden, we need to know its magnitude, increase awareness of the public and health care providers, and organize the delivery of neurologic services, education, and training programs according to the needs of each country.