Canada's National Population Health Study of Neurological Conditions was initiated in 2009 with a $15 million investment from the Government of Canada.
The study, led by the Public Health Agency of Canada and Neurological Health Charities Canada, in collaboration with Health Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, was comprised of 13 research projects, three national surveys, seven microsimulation models and the addition of four neurological conditions (epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, parkinsonism, Alzheimer's disease and other dementias) to the Public Health Agency of Canada's Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System.
The collaboration among health charities, scientific experts and surveillance experts resulted in high-quality science, efficient implementation and relevance to stakeholders.
This is most comprehensive study of neurological conditions ever to be conducted in Canada and included 14 neurological conditions:
- Alzheimer's disease and other dementias
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Brain tumour
- Cerebral palsy
- Dystonia
- Epilepsy
- Huntington's disease
- Hydrocephalus
- Multiple sclerosis
- Muscular dystrophy
- Neurotrauma (traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries)
- Parkinson's disease
- Spina bifida
- Tourette syndrome
In addition, stroke, migraine, Rett syndrome and spinal cord tumour were added to some components of the study.
These neurological conditions were examined across four main focus areas:
- The impacts on affected individuals, their families, caregivers and communities;
- The use of health services, gaps in services, and recommended improvements;
- The scope in Canada (prevalence, incidence and comorbidities);
- The risk factors for the development and progression of these conditions.
The study findings will be used by governments and organizations to inform programs and develop policies related to neurological conditions.
The Public Health Agency of Canada's Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System will continue to track trends of neurological conditions in the Canadian population on an ongoing basis.
