Overview:
International Epilepsy Day, celebrated every year on February 13, is an opportunity to raise awareness of epilepsy, how to treat and control it, and how to provide treatment to all people in need.
The Global Epilepsy Campaign was launched to “Bring Disease Out of the Shadows” to raise public awareness and understanding of epilepsy and promote efforts to improve care services and reduce its impact.
Objectives:
- Raising awareness of epilepsy.
- Reducing the impact of the disease.
- Supporting patients and their families.
- Strengthening efforts made in the public and private sectors to improve care and reduce the impact of the disease.
- Developing medical services through prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Facts:
Epilepsy is a chronic disease of the brain and affects about 50 million people around the world. It is characterized by short, recurrent bouts of involuntary movements that may involve part of the body or the entire body.
Temporary symptoms of an epileptic seizure include: loss of perception or awareness, disturbances of movement and sensation, mood disturbance, and uncontrollable shaking movements in the arms and legs.
It is estimated that up to 70% of people living with epilepsy could become seizure-free if they are diagnosed early and treated properly.
Official Date:
Globally: Feb. 13th, 2024
Locally: Rajab 3rd, 1445H