National Epilepsy Day Celebrated By Epilepsy Foundation OfIndia And the Mumbai Educational Trust
~A Continuing Medical Education (CME) session was conducted focusing on “Recent Advances in Epilepsy Awareness” in epilepsy awareness. A Coffee Table Book “ 106 free Epilepsy Camp in Maharashtra” in collaboration with the National Health Mission was released on this occasion
Mumbai: In a significant effort to address challenges associated with epilepsy, a step towards epilepsy awareness and management was taken with a Continuing Medical Education (CME) session focused on “Recent Advances in Epilepsy Awareness.” The event, chaired by Chairperson Dr.Nirmal Surya, brought together medical professionals and nearly 300 Persons with Epilepsy (PWE) to discuss the latest developments in epilepsy care and treatment. This approach, combining expert knowledge with lived experiences, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing journey to empower those living with epilepsy and educate them about this complex neurological condition. A Coffee Table Book “106 Free Epilepsy Camp In Maharashtra” in collaboration with National Health Mission was unveiled by Mr. V. Vaidyanathan, Managing Director and CEO, IDFC First Bank.
The dignitaries present during the event were Chief Guest Mr. V. Vaidyanathan, Managing Director and CEO, IDFC First Bank, Prof Dr Sangeeta Rawat, Dean KEM, Hospital, Mr. Anil Singhvi Chairman, I Can Investment Advisor Pvt. Ltd, Dr. Swati Lodha Director, MET Institute of Management, and Dr. Nirmal Surya, Founder Trustee and Chairman of Epilepsy Foundation.
“Epilepsy is a disease of the brain which is due to excessive electric activity in the neuron and those current passes through the brain causing seizure. The symptoms are seizures, loss of consciousness, stiff body, breathing problems, loss of bladder and bowel control, falls, eye blinking, or lip smacking. The causes are brain damage, stroke, severe brain injury, meningitis, encephalitis, genetic conditions, and brain tumors. There are millions of people suffering from epilepsy and many myths and taboos attached to this disease. People opt for wodoo treatment rather than consulting a neurologist. The treatment gap in India is nearly 70-80%, more so in rural areas due to the delay in diagnosis, and treatment and also an increased incidence of birth trauma due to the lack of hospitals with experts for delivery. To demonstrate the community’s engagement in epilepsy education and support, a CME was held to inform everyone about this neurological disorder,” said Dr. Nirmal Surya, Founder Trustee, and Chairman of the Epilepsy Foundation.
Dr. Nirmal Surya added, “The CME session on ‘Recent Advances in Epilepsy Awareness’ was an eye-opener for participants, enlightening the path to better understanding and treatment of this complex neurological disorder. It reminded us that in medicine, every new insight has the potential to transform patient care. By combining medical education with public outreach, we’re working to ensure that both healthcare providers and patients have access to the latest information and resources. Performances by PWE, showcase their talents and send the message that epilepsy is no longer a stigma in today’s era, and prompt treatment can lead to effective management. To support the cause, Shri Vaidhyanathanpraised the work of the Epilepsy Foundation and announced a generous donation of Rs. 25 Lakh towards the welfare of people with epilepsy. We are determined to conduct more such transformative initiatives in future for improving of quality of life of patients with epilepsy.”
