Monday 13-02-2023 - 15:33

February 13th is International Epilepsy Day.

This year the theme is “Step Up Against Stigma” and it provides a platform for people with epilepsy, and those who care for them, to dispel myths with facts.

In 2022, the World Health Organization endorsed the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and other Neurological Disorders [IGAP], which aims to reduce the stigma, improve access to treatment and reduce the burden of neurological disorders, as well as improve the quality of life of people with neurological disorders, their carers, and families. IGAP contains a specific strategic objective of strengthening the public health approach to epilepsy, which calls for 80% of countries to have developed or updated their legislation to promote and protect the rights of people with epilepsy by 2031.

International Epilepsy Day is celebrated in more than 100 countries, with epilepsy organizations and advocates scheduling ministerial meetings, informational workshops, awareness-raising campaigns, fundraising events, and social media activity. 

In many countries, lack of awareness about epilepsy as a treatable brain condition remains a central public health challenge. Educating people about epilepsy and dispelling myths can reduce stigma and discrimination at school, at work, in the clinic, across the community and at home.

Some facts about Epilepsy: 

1. It is estimated that more than 50 million people are living with epilepsy around the world [Source: WHO]
2. The provision of safe, effective, and highly affordable ($5 per person/year) anti-seizure medicines could control seizures in up to 70% of people with epilepsy. [Source: WHO]
3. Epilepsy ranks among the top five causes of global neurological disability; an estimated 125,000 deaths per year globally are related to the condition. Untreated epilepsy is a life-threatening disorder. The death rate for people with epilepsy is three times that of the general population. [Source: WHO]
4. Every fourth case of epilepsy could be prevented by addressing and minimizing risk factors, such as stroke, brain infections, birth injuries, and head trauma. However, prevention strategies remain limited and underexplored. [Source: WHO]
5. People with epilepsy are disproportionately affected by other conditions as well, such as depression, anxiety, dementia, migraine, heart disease, peptic ulcers, and arthritis. [Source: WHO]

 

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At the Association we know that Epilepsy impacts you or your loved ones all differently and that at times you can feel alone.  Please know that you are not alone. Elley, our CEO, has had Epilepsy since she was 29. Her epilepsy, at the moment is controlled.  We, as a team, all support each other and understand the struggles that having Epilepsy brings.

Here is a message from Elley:

Hi everyone, I just wanted you to know, Epilepsy can be tough. I know. What is incredible is you. Together we can break the stigma of Epilepsy and show everyone that Epilepsy is not contagious, it is not a mental illness and it is not life limiting – look at you, you are awesome!