New research shows that implementing existing solutions could reduce the financial impact of neurological conditions by £30 billion

27/02/2024

New research released this week shows that neurological conditions are costing the UK 4.3% of its GDP, equivalent to £96 billion a year.1 The report, produced by The Economist Impact Unit and commissioned by pharmaceutical company Roche, suggests that implementing existing interventions could reduce the financial impact of these conditions by £30.8 billion.1

Implementing existing interventions would reduce the economic impact of neurological conditions

According to the report published this week, The value of action: mitigating the impact of neurological disorders in the United Kingdom, implementing existing interventions, including preventative care, therapeutic treatment and rehabilitation, would significantly reduce the economic impact of neurological conditions. But the lack of an overarching strategy, insufficient staffing and expertise and inadequate access to care mean this potential saving is not currently being realised. The fragmented approach to care means people are often unable to access the diagnosis, treatment and support they desperately need.1

The report estimates the direct costs of just ten neurological conditions to health systems in the UK, as well as the indirect economic burden of lost productivity for people affected by neurological conditions and their friends and family.

Affecting millions and costing billions

The report found that in 2019, the aggregate estimated cost came to 4.3% of GDP or £96bn. The real economic cost is likely larger, given there are more than 600 different neurological conditions. Of the costs considered in the calculation, roughly half (53%) come from the “indirect” cost of lost time in potential employment. This could be avoided with the right treatment, care, financial and employment support.

Renewed calls for a Neuro Taskforce

The Neurological Alliance, together with the MS Society, Parkinsons UK, Epilepsy Action and the Association of British Neurologists, met in Westminster to mark the launch of the report, and renew calls on MPs to support the creation of a Neuro Taskforce.

In 2023, more than 19,000 people and 100 organisations signed a petition calling on the UK Government to establish a Neuro Taskforce, which would set out a clear plan to improve care for people affected by neurological conditions. Once established, the Neuro Taskforce will provide the framework to implement efficient and coordinated care that meets people’s needs and addresses economic challenges.

Georgina Carr, Chief Executive of The Neurological Alliance, said:

“Despite affecting millions of people and costing billions of pounds, too often people affected by neurological conditions are unable to access the services and support necessary to meet their needs.

“With over 19,000 people and more than 100 organisations, we continue to call on UK Government to work together to establish a Neuro Taskforce. The Taskforce would provide the framework to address these challenges and transform services and support for the 1 in 6 people with a neurological condition. Most importantly, it would show that Government are finally listening to the 1 in 6 living with a neurological condition.”

Learn more about the parliamentary launch of the report and the action we are taking here.

Notes to editors

References

  1. The Economist Impact Unit. The value of action: mitigating the impact of neurological disorders in the United Kingdom Findings report. https://impact.economist.com/perspectives/health/value-action-mitigating-impact-neurological-disorders-united-kingdom Feb 2024.