Today, the European Brain Council (EBC) recommended a major boost in neurotechnology research efforts following the publication of a report stating that 127 million Europeans suffer from brain disorders, and that the financial cost of this amounted to EUR 386 billion in 2004.

The report, entitled Cost of Disorders of the Brain in Europe, focuses on the cost of the twelve most prevalent brain disorders, which include both psychiatric and neurological diseases. The costs cited involve those for healthcare, private and public expenses outside of the medical sector (for example nursing home costs), and indirect costs (restriction of work capability, absenteeism and early retirement).

1.5 billion people around the world currently suffer from a debilitating neurological or psychiatric illness. Yet, until now, no unified market-based framework was available to accelerate the development of treatments that delay, prevent and cure chronic brain-related illness.

Next week, NeuroInsights, will make available The Neurotechnology Industry 2005: A Strategic Investment and Market Analysis Report of the Global Neurological Disease and Psychiatric Illness Markets. The 250-page report provides detailed analysis of technical advancements, intellectual property trends, adoption issues and regulatory risks facing the industry. Neurotechnology companies, research centers, and venture funds are profiled and examined providing the first comprehensive view of the industry's evolving competitive landscape. For more information visit www.neuroinsights.com.

"Never doubt the power of a small group of committed individuals to change the world. It is the only thing that ever has." — Margaret Mead