Roxas City (12 November) — A heightened awareness and understanding of the various neurological illnesses will be observed on November 12 - 17, 2007 in line with the National Neurology Week celebration.

The celebration is embodied in Proclamation No. 1408 signed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo last October 30.

The President cited in the proclamation the need to improve the information drive on neurological illnesses and the accessible care that can help those afflicted.

“It is proper to commemorate a National Neurology Week that will benefit the numerous patients nationwide from the simultaneous outreach activities to be done in identified communities in the country, such as provision of neurological services, conduct of scientific activities and other advocacy programs,” she stated in the proclamation.

The President cited the role of the Philippine Neurological Association (PNA) as the lead organization in dealing with the diseases of the nervous system, and in pursuit in the delivery of neurological care, education and research for the promotion of health and well being of the Filipinos.

To ensure the success of the commemoration, the President urged the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), non-government sectors and the PNA to join hands in the implementation of nationwide activities

Neurological illnesses are disorders that affect the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), the peripheral nervous system (peripheral nerves —cranial nerves included), or the autonomic nervous system.