Introduction: The Brain at Risk: Associations Between Disease and Cognition

Abstract

As humans, we take all of the functions of the brain for granted-this magnificent organ regulates all aspects of cognitive, behavioral, sensory, and motor experiences but seems to run effortlessly. However, given its structural and physiological complexity, there are many ways that something may go wrong. It all begins with conception and a phenomenal, rapid expansion of cellular development that emerges from the single fertilized cell that culminates in over 300 billion cells organized to guide and direct all aspects of human functioning, with the brain emerging as a result of experience-dependent interaction between cellular functioning and the environment. But at each stage of development and life, the brain is at risk for a host of adverse events that can result in death or disability. This introduction reviews the major risk factors for injury and disease over the life span with an emphasis on neurobehavioral, neurocognitive, and neuro-emotional functioning. Each chapter will review the key elements needed to understand the risk factors for adverse effects on brain integrity along with ways to potentially mitigate against or minimize such effects. The latest in research findings for each condition will be reviewed.