Design and implementation of Brain Health promotion and awareness in the community: A perspective from the Karnataka Brain Health Initiative Running title: Brain Health promotion and awareness in KaBHI Contributors

Neurological disorders constitute the primary cause of disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) worldwide, with far-reaching effects that extend beyond affected individuals to include their families, caregivers, and society at large. The burden of neurological diseases is notably high, especially in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), primarily due to limited awareness about brain health and the pervasive social stigma surrounding neurological disorders. These barriers often prevent individuals from seeking timely and appropriate medical care. To address these challenges, the World Health Assembly developed the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders, emphasizing the importance of awareness programs. In alignment with these global priorities, the brain health promotion and awareness initiatives were conducted in the state of Karnataka, India, as part of a comprehensive public health model for neurological disorders known as the Karnataka Brain Health Initiative (KaBHI). This article highlights the design and implementation of brain health promotion and awareness strategies in Karnataka, aimed at reducing stigma, improving access to care, and promoting early diagnosis and management of neurological conditions.