A recent preprint study has shed light on a concerning increase in mortality rates among individuals under the age of 44 due to neurological diseases. The study, conducted by Phinance Technologies using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, has identified a significant rise in deaths linked to neurological conditions, either as the primary cause or contributing factor.

According to Phinance founder Ed Dowd, the excess death rates observed in 2021, 2022, and 2023 are considered extreme occurrences with high statistical significance. These findings indicate a departure from historical trends in death rates from neurological diseases, suggesting a new and worsening phenomenon in action, expected to persist through 2023.

The neurological conditions highlighted in the study include Guillain-Barré syndrome and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). ADEM is a condition that often follows a viral or bacterial infection, leading to inflammation in the central nervous system. Symptoms of ADEM typically involve headaches, confusion, weakness, and numbness, as reported by the Cleveland Clinic.

Guillain-Barré syndrome, on the other hand, is characterized by symptoms such as numbness, weakness, and nerve damage primarily affecting the extremities. Severe cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome can result in balance issues, pain, and difficulties in walking, swallowing, and breathing.

The research underscores the alarming trend of rising mortality rates in young adults associated with neurological diseases following the onset of the pandemic. The study’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the evolving health challenges faced by younger demographics, urging further investigation and proactive measures to address this growing public health concern.