Howard Florey Institute Australia's Brain Research Institute

Our greatest health concern

Brain disorders affect 75% of Australians, either directly or indirectly, and over 3 million Australians will experience one or more episodes of a major brain or mind disorder this year.

Scientists know of more than 1,000 disorders of the brain and nervous system. These disorders cause widespread suffering to individuals, their families, carers, and communities. Brain disorders cause as much disability as all other causes combined, including heart disease and cancer.

World-wide problem

According to a 2007 report from the World Health Organization (WHO), brain disorders affect up to one billion people world-wide and that number is set to increase with our ageing population.

An estimated 6.8 million people die every year from brain disorders.

Brain disorders do not discriminate – they affect people in all countries, irrespective of age, sex, education or income.

WHO claims that unless immediate action is taken globally, the burden of brain disorders is likely to become an even more serious threat to public health.

Brain disorders affect all ages

Brain disorders affect young and old. In young people, mood disorders, addiction and schizophrenia rob them of an enjoyable life. Older people are affected by stroke and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and motor neuron disease.

A rising economic burden

In addition to the personal, family and community costs of these disorders, the Australian Federal government spends more than $400 million annually on pharmaceutical benefits for mental disorders and nearly $2 billion on disability support pensions. These costs will rise markedly with our ageing population unless dramatic advances are made in treating and preventing brain and mind disorders.

Major advances offer hope

Fortunately, because of major advances in technologies to investigate the brain, as well as an intense international focus on brain research, dramatic strides will be made in the next few decades. The neuroscience revolution now underway offers great promise for better treatments and ultimately cures or prevention of these debilitating disorders. Australia can be proud of its world-class neuroscience research and our scientists’ contribution to improving the health and wealth of our nation.