Treatment Should be Integrated in Primary Healthcare Systems: ExpertsPublish Date: 2010-03-14 14:00:16 Story Code: 26024 DUBAI — Experts from the regional office of the World Health Organisation said that epilepsy treatment should be integrated in primary healthcare systems in all countries.
While launching the regional report on epilepsy ‘Epilepsy in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region — Bridging the Gap’ at the second East Mediterranean Epilepsy Congress in Dubai recently, Dr Tarun Dua from the WHO head office said no developmental projects on the condition were currently being carried out in the region. “Treatment guidelines have been formulated but complex beliefs surrounding the condition prevent people from seeking treatment,” she added. Epilepsy affects an estimated 4.7 million people in the region. Despite the fact that treatment cost as little as $0.3 are available, up to 98 per cent of individuals in some countries are not able to benefit. “Epilepsy, a common neurological disorder, is a target of enduring myths which have shaped social and cultural attitudes and practices. Such myths continue to survive, and contribute in no small measure to the stigma and discrimination faced by people affected by epilepsy and their families. This, in turn, feeds into a vicious circle, where affected individuals and their families do not access treatment, even if it is available,” said Dr Khalid Saeed, Regional Advisor for Mental Health and Substance Abuse. The report brings together, for the first time, all the available evidence from the region on the epidemiology, etiology and management of epilepsy. Trauma was assessed as the reason behind the most frequently reported cause of epilepsy in the region followed by infections and tumours. “Lack of resources and qualified staff also hampers treatment,” said Dr Saeed. © Khaleej Times 2010. All rights reserved. Share this story:  Digg
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