ABSTRACT The World Health Organization (WHO) defines brain health as the maintenance of optimal brain integrity, good mental state, and cognitive function without significant neuropsychiatric disease. Early childhood is a critical period for brain development, which were influenced by early experiences, nutrition, and environmental factors. Disruptions during this sensitive period can lead to lifelong challenges in cognition, emotion, and social function, highlighting early brain health as both a healthcare and societal priority. Despite growing global attention to brain health, resource distribution remains highly uneven. In particular, 43% of children in low‐ and middle‐income countries are at risk of not reaching their developmental potential. Only a few countries have implemented comprehensive, family‐friendly policies. To achieve the goal of a 30% reduction in neurodevelopmental disorders by 2030, a multidimensional strategy is essential, including providing balanced nutrition, promoting physical activity, enhancing mental health support, and creating safe and supportive society. Moreover, there is a need to accelerate the development of healthcare systems and promote the application of cutting‐edge technologies—such as molecular classification, multi‐omics research, and AI‐based prediction models. In response to these challenges, China is actively advancing its brain health agenda by establishing a National Center for Child Brain Health, launching large‐scale professional training programs, and promoting coordination between primary and comprehensive brain health centers. This review summarizes the major challenges in pediatric brain health, recent progress in related research, and key global and national strategies aimed at promoting optimal neurological development in children.
Ma et al. (Tue,) studied this question.
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