KARACHI: National Epilepsy Day Pakistan was marked in Karachi with a renewed call to close the country’s epilepsy treatment gap through sustained awareness and long-term institutional commitment. Health experts, civil society leaders and advocates gathered to push for policy recognition, ethical medical practice and stigma reduction across the country.
The press conference was organised by the Neurology Research and Patient Welfare Fund (NRPWF), which runs the National Epilepsy Centre at JPMC, in collaboration with Epilepsy Support Pakistan.
National Epilepsy Day Pakistan Highlights Treatment Gap
Speaking at the event, Dr Hiba Mahmud described epilepsy as one of the most common yet misunderstood neurological disorders in Pakistan. She emphasised that although epilepsy is treatable, stigma, myths and delayed diagnosis continue to widen the treatment gap.
“These concerns led to the launch of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Control Programme of Pakistan in 2001,” she said, explaining that the initiative was designed to systematically address clinical care shortages and public misconceptions.
The programme expanded the National Epilepsy Centre’s services, providing structured medical treatment, counselling and long-term follow-up, while Epilepsy Support Pakistan focused on education and community engagement.
According to global health bodies such as the World Health Organization, epilepsy remains a major public health issue worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where treatment access is uneven.
National Epilepsy Centre’s 25-Year Commitment
Dr Zarine Mogal, Head of the National Epilepsy Centre, outlined how integrated epilepsy programmes have evolved over the past 25 years.
She noted that epilepsy affects more than two million Pakistanis. With awareness, affordable medicines and trained healthcare professionals, most individuals can lead productive and dignified lives.
For every person living with epilepsy, at least five family members are indirectly affected due to social stigma and misinformation, she added.
“Epilepsy is not rare, not contagious, and not a reason for discrimination,” she said. “It is a public health issue that demands continuity of care and informed communities.”
International research published by agencies such as Reuters and the Associated Press has repeatedly underscored the treatment gap in developing nations, where limited neurological services and social stigma delay intervention.
Global Solidarity and National Advocacy
The event also featured a recorded message from Donna Walsh, Chief Executive Officer of the International Bureau of Epilepsy, who highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration in epilepsy advocacy and care.
She acknowledged Pakistan’s growing institutional efforts in integrating public awareness with structured clinical services.
A message of solidarity from Arshad Mahmud reinforced the cultural dimension of advocacy, emphasising compassion and public understanding.
Shanaz Ramzi, President of Epilepsy Support Pakistan, stressed that while National Epilepsy Day Pakistan mobilises attention annually, Epilepsy Awareness Month sustains engagement over time.
She called on the government to officially endorse February 28 as National Epilepsy Day in tribute to Abdul Sattar Edhi, recognising his humanitarian legacy despite living with epilepsy.
The evening’s chief guest, Hina Khwaja Bayat, accepted the role of epilepsy ambassador and urged families to seek timely treatment for a condition that is manageable but widely misunderstood.
Why National Epilepsy Day Pakistan Matters
The social importance of National Epilepsy Day Pakistan lies in confronting long-standing stigma that isolates patients and their families.
Politically, official recognition could integrate epilepsy more firmly into public health planning and budget allocations.
Economically, untreated epilepsy reduces workforce participation and increases healthcare burdens.
From a public interest perspective, sustained awareness encourages early diagnosis, medication adherence and community support.
What Happens Next
Advocates are expected to intensify engagement with federal and provincial health authorities to formalise February 28 as National Epilepsy Day Pakistan.
Institutional expansion of neurological services in public hospitals may follow if policy endorsement gains momentum.
Public reaction, particularly through media campaigns and social platforms, is likely to shape the scale of national recognition in the coming months.
NRPWF and Epilepsy Support Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining comprehensive care programmes and strengthening awareness outreach throughout the year.
FAQs
What is the purpose of National Epilepsy Day Pakistan?
National Epilepsy Day Pakistan aims to raise awareness about epilepsy, reduce stigma and advocate for improved access to diagnosis, treatment and community support across the country.
How many people are affected by epilepsy in Pakistan?
Health experts estimate that more than two million Pakistanis live with epilepsy, with many more family members indirectly affected by social and medical challenges.
Is epilepsy treatable?
Yes. Epilepsy is a manageable neurological condition. With proper medication, trained healthcare providers and consistent follow-up, most individuals can lead productive lives.
Why is there a treatment gap in Pakistan?
The treatment gap is driven by limited specialist services, delayed diagnosis, medication interruptions and social stigma that discourages families from seeking care.
Is epilepsy contagious?
No. Epilepsy is not contagious and should not be a reason for discrimination or social exclusion.
