Why Nigeria must invest in prevention, not treatment of neurological disorders – Farombi

A consultant neurologist at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Dr. Temitope Farombi, has called on the Nigerian government to place greater emphasis on preventing neurological disorders, warning that managing such conditions after onset is significantly more costly and often produces limited results.

Farombi, who founded the Brain Centre Neurological and Rehabilitation Service in Ibadan, noted that many neurological conditions common among Nigerians could be avoided with appropriate policies, public education, and strengthened healthcare infrastructure.

The Brain Centre, established in January 2025 as a comprehensive neurological and rehabilitation facility, has handled more than 160 cases within its first year.

Speaking at the centre’s first anniversary in Ibadan, the British-trained neurologist highlighted the rising prevalence of autism, stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and traumatic brain injury. She described these conditions as leading contributors to disability, yet observed that government efforts remain largely focused on treatment rather than prevention.

She reiterated that preventive measures are consistently cheaper and more effective than post-diagnosis interventions.

“A condition like tetanus can be prevented with a vaccine that costs a few hundred naira, but treating tetanus can cost close to two million naira, often with poor outcomes. The same applies to stroke and other neurological diseases.”

Farombi explained that stroke prevention through routine checks and medications may cost between ₦10,000 and ₦15,000 monthly, while treating a stroke can require one to two million naira, money many families do not have.

She described this pattern as unsustainable in a country where most citizens pay for healthcare out of pocket.

She also highlighted the role of genetics in neurological conditions, particularly autism, adding that people with a family history of autism can pass it down genetically, making premarital and pre-pregnancy genetic testing important.

She stated that, unlike sickle cell screening, genetic testing for autism risk remains expensive and largely inaccessible.

“This is an area where government intervention is needed. Affordable genetic testing, proper antenatal care, and early specialist referrals during pregnancy can significantly reduce preventable complications.”

Farombi emphasised the growing importance of non-pharmacological approaches, especially social prescription.

She explained that social prescription involves activities such as gardening, spending time in green spaces, dancing, music, and travel, which have been shown to support brain health.

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“There is now strong scientific evidence that social and environmental factors influence brain function and disease expression. For patients with dementia or Parkinson’s disease, activities like dancing, music, and social engagement can improve movement, mood, and awareness.”

She expressed concern that many patients with neurological conditions are confined indoors, sometimes prevented from attending religious or social gatherings, which she said worsens their condition.

On government responsibility, Farombi said Nigeria’s health insurance coverage remains below 10 per cent, leaving most patients to pay out of pocket.

She added that essential neurological medications are often unavailable or unaffordable, with some patients spending up to ₦500,000 per treatment session for conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

She also pointed out the absence of advanced treatments and community-based rehabilitation centres in the country.

According to her, rehabilitation services are largely hospital-based and insufficient, whereas patients should be able to access physical, speech, and occupational therapy close to their homes.

“Neurological conditions are the leading cause of disability worldwide,” she said. “Without proper prevention strategies, drug availability, rehabilitation services, and public education, the burden will continue to rise.”

Farombi warned that lifestyle factors such as smoking, drug misuse, and excessive alcohol consumption also contribute significantly to neurological damage, including memory loss and brain degeneration.

She, however, called for stronger regulation, public awareness campaigns, and sustained investment in preventive healthcare.

“Once neurological disease sets in, the cost is enormous, not just financially, but socially and emotionally. Nigeria must shift its focus from treating disease to preventing it.”