by Dr Magdalini Krommyda, Consultant Neurologist MD, FRCP, EAN Ambassador of Neurology and Brain Health
In recent years, the global focus on brain health has gained significant momentum, and Greece is proud to be part of this essential movement. As an Ambassador of Neurology and Brain Health for the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), I am excited to share the country’s innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing brain health and preventing cognitive decline.
1. Brain Health School Challenge: A Nationwide Awareness Campaign
In collaboration with the Brain Health Mission and with the endorsement of the Hellenic Neurological Society, and its President, Prof. G. Tsivgoulis, Greece is set to launch the Brain Health School Challenge. This exciting initiative is designed to raise awareness about brain health across schools throughout Greece, engaging students, teachers, and parents nationwide1.
Picture: Neurologists Magda Krommyda (right) and Georgia Xiromerisiou (left) with Vice Governor of Public Health & Social Solidarity Melina Dermentzopoulou discussing the launch of Brain Health School Challenge.
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2. Lifelong Learning: Empowering the Public through Education
Recognising that education and continuous learning are critical for brain development, we have launched a comprehensive online programme dedicated to brain health. Offered through the Hellenic Open University (H.O.U.), a public higher education institution, this programme provides accessible learning for all, presented in Greek. Developed by a multidisciplinary team of neurologists, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals, the programme offers interactive modules that cover a wide range of topics. These include cognitive function, mental health strategies, neuroplasticity, and preventive measures—all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of how to maintain and enhance brain health at every stage of life2.
3. GINGER: The Greek Initiative to Prevent Cognitive Decline
A key focus of Greece’s national efforts is on preventative care. In this regard, the Greek Interventional Geriatric Initiative to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (GINGER) has been launched as a pilot study to address subjective cognitive decline. A dynamic group of psychiatrists, neurologists, dieticians, physiotherapists, neuropsychologists, and other healthcare professionals have joined forces in this initiative. The GINGER network brings together clinical and research centres, fostering a collaborative approach to cognitive health. By combining insights from a range of disciplines, we aim to deliver comprehensive strategies to prevent cognitive decline within the window of opportunity for early intervention3.
Early disease detection has been crucial in advancing treatments and interventions for various neurological conditions. Following scientific and technological developments, integrated brain health services that prioritise prevention and promote a holistic approach to brain health have emerged in our country4.
4. Regional Collaboration: Strengthening the Brain Health Landscape in Southeastern Europe
Greece’s commitment to brain health extends beyond national borders. We are proud to be part of the South-Eastern European Brain Health Task Force, a regional collaboration coordinated by members of the Global Brain Health Institute at Trinity College Dublin5. This collective effort enables us to study regional factors that affect brain health. By sharing expertise and resources, we are working toward developing region-specific strategies that tackle the unique challenges of southeastern Europe.
5. A National Commitment to Brain Health Research and Care
In alignment with the EAN’s Brain Health Mission, which advocates for national strategies to advance brain research and improve care for neurological and mental health disorders, Greece aspires to strengthen its contribution to this mission. Through engaging school programmes, educational offerings, integrated brain health services, and regional collaborations, we are creating a culture that prioritises brain health for all. By uniting diverse expertise and adopting a multi-disciplinary approach, we aim to overcome disparities in brain health determinants across countries, unlocking the potential of our minds and paving the way for a brighter, healthier future (Pic 2).
- Greek Brain Health School Challenge 2025 – ean.org
- https://kedivim.eap.gr/ygeia-tou-egkefalou-1os-kyklos/
- P. Alexopoulos et al. Pilot study of the Greek Interventional Geriatric Initiative to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (GINGER) in individuals with Subjective Cognitive Decline: Paving the Way towards brain health clinics in Greece. Frontiers in Psychiatry, section Aging Psychiatry (in press)
- https://www.mindfulmind.gr/en/
- https://www.gbhi.org/
