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National Epilepsy Day 2024 aims to break stigma, raise awareness, and support millions living with epilepsy. Join the cause this National Epilepsy Day!
National Epilepsy Day is observed every year on November 17 in India to raise awareness about epilepsy, its challenges, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects millions of people around the world, including India. In this informative guide, we’ll cover what is National Epilepsy Day, when is National Epilepsy Day 2024, what is epilepsy disease, its causes, treatment options, and government initiatives that aim to support and uplift those affected by epilepsy.
National Epilepsy Day 2024 is an informative observance in India that highlights the challenges faced by people who have epilepsy and encourages public understanding and empathy. Formed by the Epilepsy Foundation of India, this day is part of broader efforts to bring much-needed attention to epilepsy, dispel myths, and spread accurate information about this often misunderstood condition.
By raising awareness, National Epilepsy Day desires to improve the quality of life for the affected people, supporting accessible treatment and help within society.
| National Epilepsy Day 2024 | |
| Aspect | Details |
| Event | National Epilepsy Day |
| Date | November 17, 2024 |
| Purpose | To raise awareness about epilepsy, support those affected, and educate the public to reduce stigma |
| Organized By | Epilepsy Foundation of India, founded by Dr. Nirmal Surya in 2009 |
| Global Prevalence | 7 crore people worldwide (1.2 crore in India) |
| Major Symptoms of Epilepsy |
|
| Government Initiatives |
|
| Key Supporting NGOs | Indian Epilepsy Association (IEA) with 22 chapters across India |
| Future Goals | To increase awareness, improve research, reduce the treatment gap, and promote inclusion and support for epilepsy patients |
National Epilepsy Day in India was initiated by the Epilepsy Foundation of India, founded in 2009 by Dr. Nirmal Surya in Mumbai. The Epilepsy Foundation is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of people with epilepsy, supporting treatment, creating support systems, and conducting research on the disease.
The work of the Epilepsy Foundation is to emphasize reducing the stigma and social isolation that is often done with epilepsy patients, as well as providing free treatment and resources to patients in need. Since its inception, the Epilepsy Foundation of India has played a key role in spreading knowledge and organizing events nationwide.
National Epilepsy Day 2024 will be observed on November 17th, 2024 on Sunday across India. This day provides an opportunity for healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and communities to organize campaigns and events that provide a forum for understanding epilepsy better. With activities like seminars, health camps, and support group sessions, National Epilepsy Day 2024 encourages open discussion, medical guidance, and access to resources that can benefit individuals and families dealing with epilepsy.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder which is characterized by recurrent and unprovoked seizures. Seizures occur due to sudden, excessive electrical discharges in a group of brain cells which lead to temporary disturbances in brain function. These disturbances can vary from brief lapses of attention or muscle pulls to intense and prolonged disruptions.
Epilepsy is not a singular condition but rather a range of disorders that manifest in various ways. Some individuals may experience brief staring spells, while others might take prolonged and uncontrollable movements of the limbs. However, it is necessary to understand that a single seizure does not signify epilepsy.
Most epilepsy patients can manage their condition effectively with medication, while only a small percentage of people may require surgical intervention. According to a 2018 study, over 7 crore people globally suffer from epilepsy, with 1.2 crore cases in India alone which represents a substantial portion of the global epilepsy burden.
The prevalence of epilepsy is estimated to be 5-9 cases per 1,000 people globally. According to the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) analysis 2010, epilepsy accounts for 0.7% of the global disease burden, which summarizes over 1.7 crore disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), with a significant percentage of cases in low- and middle-income countries. In India, epilepsy is particularly prevalent among children aged 8–12, with a five-year prevalence rate of 22.2 per 1,000 children.
Epilepsy symptoms differentially based on the type of seizure and the affected area of the brain. Common signs of epilepsy that need to be addressed on national epilepsy day include:
The experience of each person with epilepsy is unique, which is why understanding the condition on an individual level is essential.
The causes of epilepsy can be complex and multifactorial. Here are some common factors:
Despite many significant and noteworthy advancements in medical science, in approximately half of epilepsy cases, the exact cause remains unknown. This lack of clarity makes National Epilepsy Day 2024 even more critical for supporting research and encouraging medical breakthroughs.
Epilepsy management focuses on reducing the frequency and severity of seizures through a combination of medical, surgical, and lifestyle interventions. Common approaches include:
Awareness through National Epilepsy Day 2024 seeks to encourage early diagnosis and prompt treatment, which will ultimately reduce the burden of epilepsy on individuals and society.
Approximately one-third of people with epilepsy do not respond to existing treatments, which highlights the need for further research to develop effective therapies and enhances the need for understanding of epilepsy’s causes. Observing National Epilepsy Day 2024 can play a crucial role in:
Recognizing the importance of addressing epilepsy, the Government of India has launched many initiatives which continuously aim at increasing awareness, improving access to treatment, and supporting research.
A broader part of the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP), the National Programme on Epilepsy seeks to integrate epilepsy treatment and management within primary health services. These initiative works to increase the availability of diagnostic services, educate healthcare workers, and ensure that treatment is accessible to rural and underserved populations.
The government along with various non-governmental organizations, provides community-based rehabilitation programs to support epilepsy patients. These programs offer resources for medical care, mental health counselling, and job training to enhance the quality of life for people with epilepsy.
In recent years, awareness campaigns run by the government and NGOs have played a critical role in educating the public and disproving myths surrounding epilepsy. These campaigns, especially on National Epilepsy Day, focus on eliminating the stigma associated with epilepsy, empowering epilepsy patients and encouraging open discussions.
With advancements in digital health, the Indian government has begun leveraging telemedicine to reach patients in remote areas. This helps ensure timely diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy, which is essential for managing the condition effectively.
Recognizing epilepsy as a serious public health issue, the Government of India has implemented various initiatives under the National Programme on Prevention and Control of Epilepsy. This program integrates epilepsy management within primary healthcare, which aspires to increase access to treatment across India.
Indian Epilepsy Association (IEA) InitiativesThe Indian Epilepsy Association (IEA) has 22 active chapters across India, working tirelessly to educate the public. Through lectures, film shows, street plays, and various informational campaigns, IEA seeks to break down misconceptions and create a more inclusive society for those with epilepsy. |
As National Epilepsy Day 2024 approaches, it reminds us that awareness, compassion, and proactive support are essential to making a meaningful impact. Understanding what is National Epilepsy Day, the causes of epilepsy disease, and the efforts being made to improve treatment and support can help society grow more inclusive. It also encourages individuals to seek medical advice if they or someone they know experiences symptoms, promoting health and wellness for all.
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