Advocates call for action on Epilepsy on awareness day

2026-03-03 - 21:53

ZUBAIR YAQOOB On National Epilepsy Day, Karachi hosted a pivotal event at the National Epilepsy Center, JPMC, organized by the Neurology Research and Patient Welfare Fund with support from Epilepsy Support Pakistan (ESP). The event aimed to reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to improving the lives of people living with epilepsy and to spotlight the challenges they face. Opening the session, Dr. Hiba Mahmood described epilepsy as a common yet treatable neurological disorder that continues to be affected by stigma, misconceptions, and significant gaps in treatment across the country. She explained that these concerns led to the launch of Pakistan’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Control Program in 2001 by the Neurology Research and Patient Welfare Fund. “The program was designed to systematically address these challenges,” she said, “providing comprehensive medical care through an expanded National Epilepsy Center and focusing on public awareness, education, and community engagement.” A short documentary screened during the conference highlighted the daily struggles of an epilepsy patient, emphasizing delays in diagnosis, interruptions in treatment, and social isolation. The film also illustrated the importance of timely and continuous care, underscoring how access to proper treatment can transform patients’ lives. Dr. Zarina Mughal, head of the National Epilepsy Center, reflected on 25 years of planning, implementation, and continuity of integrated epilepsy programs. “While over two million Pakistanis are affected by epilepsy, most can lead meaningful, dignified lives if affordable medications, trained healthcare professionals, and community support are available,” she said. Dr. Mughal emphasized the ripple effect of the condition, noting that each person with epilepsy directly impacts at least five family members, often exacerbated by misunderstandings and lack of awareness. “Epilepsy is neither rare nor contagious, and it should not lead to discrimination,” she added. “It is a public health concern that demands ethical medical practice, treatment adherence, and informed communities.” International support was acknowledged through a recorded message from Donna Walsh, CEO of the International Bureau of Epilepsy, who highlighted the importance of global partnerships in epilepsy care and advocacy and commended Pakistan’s role in these efforts. A pre-recorded message from noted musician and actor Arshad Mahmood expressed solidarity and encouragement for people living with epilepsy. ESP President Shehnaz Ramzi stressed that while National Epilepsy Day draws attention, epilepsy awareness month sustains public engagement. She proposed officially observing February 28 as National Epilepsy Day to honor Abdul Sattar Edhi’s lifelong humanitarian work, noting that Edhi himself had epilepsy. Ramzi called on the government to formalize this recognition and sought media collaboration to promote the cause. The press conference concluded with a keynote address by prominent actress, host, and activist Hina Khawaja Bayat, who emphasized the critical importance of seeking help for epilepsy. “It is treatable, yet widely misunderstood,” she said, urging greater public awareness and support.