About Epilepsy
Introduction to Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. 50 million people worldwide are affected by epilepsy. Understanding Epilepsy It affects people of all ages and backgrounds, with an estimated 12 million individuals living with epilepsy in India alone. Despite being one of the most common neurological disorders, epilepsy is often misunderstood, leading to significant stigma and discrimination.
Every 5-10 out of 1000 Indians suffer from epilepsy2,3. The lack of knowledge of antiepileptic drugs, poverty, cultural beliefs, stigma, poor health infrastructure, and shortage of trained professionals contribute for the treatment gap. Infectious diseases play an important role in seizures and long-term burden causing both new-onset epilepsy and status epilepticus. Proper education and appropriate health care services can make tremendous change in a country like India.
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Prevent Head Injuries
Preventing head injuries reduces the risk of developing epilepsy.
Manage Brain Health
Maintain good cardiovascular health to prevent strokes, which can lead to epilepsy.
Genetic Counselling
For individuals with a family history of epilepsy, genetic counseling may help understand and mitigate risks.
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Epilepsy prevalence in the world
Epilepsy is global; understanding should be too
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders worldwide, affecting millions of people regardless of age, gender, or background. Despite its prevalence, many still lack access to proper care and are burdened by myths and stigma surrounding the condition.
Epilepsy is most commonly diagnosed in children and older adults, but it can occur at any age. Around 70% of epilepsy cases begin in childhood, and its prevalence increases in older populations due to factors like stroke or Alzheimer’s disease.
Global Statistics
- 65 million people worldwide are living with epilepsy.
- 1 in 100 people will experience epilepsy at some point in their lives.
- Approximately 50 million people in Asia, 13 million in Africa, and 9 million in Latin America suffer from epilepsy.
- Over 80% of people with epilepsy live in low- and middle-income countries, where access to treatment and diagnosis may be limited.
India Scenario About Epilepsy
Epilepsy in India: Widespread yet under-addressed
India has a high prevalence of epilepsy, with an estimated 12 million people affected. The prevalence is higher in rural areas (1.9%) than in urban areas (0.6%). However, there are fewer than 2,000 neurologists in India, which leads to a large treatment gap.
Statistics and Data
- Over 12 million people in India live with epilepsy, accounting for nearly 1/6th of the global epilepsy population.
- Rural areas are disproportionately affected, with 70-80% of epilepsy cases in India remaining untreated due to lack of resources.
Myths
Myths around Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a mental illness
Epilepsy is a mental illness
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder, not a mental illness. While it can co-occur with mental health issues, it primarily involves physical changes in brain activity.
Epileptic seizures are dangerous to witness and should be avoided
Epileptic seizures are dangerous to witness and should be avoided
While witnessing a seizure can be alarming, most seizures are not life-threatening. It is important for bystanders to know how to help safely during a seizure.
People with epilepsy cannot drive or operate machinery.
People with epilepsy cannot drive or operate machinery.
Driving regulations vary by region and depend on the individual's seizure control. Many people with well-managed epilepsy can drive safely.
People with epilepsy cannot lead normal lives.
People with epilepsy cannot lead normal lives.
With proper treatment and management, many individuals with epilepsy lead fulfilling lives, pursuing careers, education, and relationships like anyone else.
Epilepsy is contagious.
Epilepsy is contagious.
Epilepsy is not contagious; it cannot be transmitted from one person to another.
Mitigation of Myths
Public Education and Awareness Campaigns
- Share factual information through schools, workplaces, and communities to dispel misconceptions.
- Use social media and online platforms to reach wider audiences with epilepsy awareness content.
Empowering Patients and Families
- Equip individuals with epilepsy and their caregivers with knowledge to confidently address misinformation.
- Encourage them to share their stories to humanize and normalize the condition.
Training Healthcare Professionals
- Ensure that doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers provide consistent, factual information to patients and communities.
Accessible Resources
- Develop and distribute clear, easy-to-understand materials (pamphlets, videos, apps) addressing common myths.
