Experts Urge Action to Bridge Epilepsy Treatment Gap in Pakistan

Nabeel Jamal

Karachi: Health experts and advocacy groups on Friday called for sustained national efforts to close Pakistan’s epilepsy treatment gap, as the Neurology Research and Patient Welfare Fund (NRPWF) and Epilepsy Support Pakistan (ESP) marked National Epilepsy Day with a press conference in Karachi.

The event was organised by NRPWF-run National Epilepsy Centre (NEC) at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), reaffirming a commitment to improve care and reduce stigma surrounding epilepsy.

‘Common, Treatable but Stigmatised’

In her welcome remarks, Dr Hiba Mahmud described epilepsy as a common and treatable neurological disorder that continues to be burdened by stigma, misconceptions and limited access to care in Pakistan.

She noted that these challenges led to the launch of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Control Programme of Pakistan (CECP) in 2001. The initiative expanded the National Epilepsy Centre to provide integrated medical services while ESP focused on public awareness and community engagement.

A short documentary and patient testimony presented during the session highlighted delayed diagnoses, interrupted treatment and social exclusion faced by many individuals with epilepsy, underscoring the importance of timely and continuous care.

Over Two Million Affected

Dr Zarine Mogal, Head of the National Epilepsy Centre, outlined the centre’s 25-year journey in developing integrated epilepsy services.

She said epilepsy affects over two million people in Pakistan, adding that with proper treatment and awareness, most individuals can lead productive and dignified lives.

“Epilepsy is not rare, not contagious, and not a reason for discrimination,” she said, stressing the need for affordable medicines, trained healthcare professionals and informed communities.

Dr Mogal added that at least five family members are indirectly affected for every patient, largely due to myths and lack of awareness.

Global and National Solidarity

A recorded message from Donna Walsh, CEO of the International Bureau for Epilepsy, highlighted the importance of global partnerships in advancing epilepsy care and acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts.

A solidarity message from composer and actor Arshad Mahmud was also screened during the event.

Shanaz Ramzi, President of Epilepsy Support Pakistan, said while National Epilepsy Day mobilises attention, Epilepsy Awareness Month ensures sustained engagement. She reiterated a proposal to officially designate February 28 as National Epilepsy Day in tribute to humanitarian Abdul Sattar Edhi, noting his lifelong service despite living with epilepsy.

She urged government endorsement and sought media support for the initiative.

Ambassador for Awareness

Renowned actor and activist Hina Khwaja Bayat, the chief guest, pledged to serve as an ambassador for epilepsy awareness. She encouraged families to seek medical help and challenge misconceptions surrounding the condition.

The conference concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session and a renewed pledge by NEC and its partners to continue comprehensive care, public education and stigma reduction efforts nationwide.

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