The Epilepsy Foundation of Ghana Monday, February 10 launched a campaign in partnership with the media to increase public awareness of epilepsy and work to eliminate the stigma surrounding the disease.
The event also marked World Epilepsy Day.
A Neurologist at the 37 Military Hospital, Dr. Augustina Charway-Felli said when the public gets more education on the disease, it will help to properly assist people when the need arises.
The second Monday in February every year is marked as International Epilepsy Day. In this regard, Epilepsy Ghana Foundation, Ghana chapter has launched a campaign in collaboration with the media to help create awareness about the disease.
At this year’s event day, a team of doctors and neurologists sensitized the public on how to help people who suffer from the disease.
The Head of Neurologists at the 37 Military Hospital and Vice President of Epilepsy Society of Ghana, Dr. Augustina Charway Felli said 85 percent of people living with epilepsy do not receive proper care due to the stigmatisation associated with the disease.
She said there are some treatment gaps all over the world as many individuals lack knowledge about the disease.
The Head of the neurology unit at Korle Bu teaching hospital, Dr. Albert Akpalu urged the media to be advocates in helping to help reduce the stigma surrounding epilepsy.
The Epilepsy Foundation estimates that about two thousand persons are living with the disease without any form of treatment .
The foundation is committed to eradicating the stigma associated with the disease stressing that the disease is triggered by brain disorder.
This year’s Epilepsy Day focused on Friendship and Inclusion: Out of the Closet.