Health Literacy in Action - Oct 16, 2025

MEP Interest Group on Brain Health & Neurological Conditions meeting:
'Health Literacy in Action: Enhancing Patient Outcomes and Policy Impact'

1. Health Literacy A key to advancing brain health and neurological care in Europe Hon. Prof. Kristine Sørensen Brussels, 16 October 2025

2. It happened to me, It could happen to you!

3. THE CHALLENGE A rising tide of neurological conditions THE WHY Health literacy as the missing link THE SOLUTION Building health literate systems THE FUTURE A health literate Europe for enhanced brain health and neurological care

4. WHO AM I?

5. Over 179 million Europeans live with neurological disorders. Neurological conditions are the leading cause of disability and cost Europe €800 billion annually. Low health literacy amplifies challenges — delayed diagnosis, poor management, caregiver strain. Without health literacy, even excellent clinical care cannot achieve its full impact. THE CHALLENGE A rising tide of neurological conditions in Europe

6. THE WHY Health literacy as the missing link for brain health and neurological care Brain health depends on how people understand, evaluate, and act on health information. Health literacy enables people to recognize signs, understand diagnoses, and engage in care. It is both an individual skill and a system capacity.

7. Sørensen et al., 2012

8. Integrate health literacy into European brain health and neurological care strategies. Develop health literate organizations with clear, person-centered communication Train healthcare professionals to communicate effectively and support caregivers. Ensure digital tools are inclusive and co-designed with people living with neurological conditions. Develop policy frameworks to bridge the gaps. THE SOLUTION Building health-literate health systems

9. Brach et al., 2012

10. I have a dream …

11. A dream of a health literate future…

12. Imagine a Europe where everyone can care for their brain health with confidence and support.

13. I believe the future is health literate because we shape it!

14. 4. . THE FUTURE A health-literate Europe for brain health and neurological care The future of brain health depends on collective understanding and participation. Health literacy drives empowerment, innovation, and equity. Investing in health literacy means investing in Europe’s social and cognitive capital. Health literacy is brain health in action.

15. You are the health literacy champions! FACE THE CHALLENGE BE THE CHANGE LEAD THE WAY Kristine Sørensen [email protected]