- Agency Report
Dr. Nkechi Obianozie, a Consultant Neurologist at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, says high medication costs and stigma are some of the factors hindering epilepsy care in Nigeria.
Obianozie spoke with the News Agency (NAN) in a telephone interview on Friday in commemoration of the International Epilepsy Week.
NAN reports that the theme for this year is: “Turning Stories into Action”, while the day is commemorated every year to raise awareness and inclusion for people affected by epilepsy globally.The expert described epilepsy as a brain disease characterised by unprovoked seizures in any part of the brain.
She noted that increased awareness and unhindered access to medication and care would greatly ease the plight of people living with epilepsy.
According to her, the disease affects all races, genders and ages with a higher burden in low-income countries when compared to high income countries.
“The brain is like a network, when there is disconnection in one wire or it is not working well, it can result in seizures with symptoms like jerking, steering in space and abnormal behaviour depending on the part of the brain.
“When an individual has that problem in the network of the brain, such a person will have unprovoked seizures which causes epilepsy.
“The high cost of medication and stigma prevent people from accessing epileptic care but with enough awareness and the right support, persons living with epilepsy can live a normal life,” she said.
She also advised Nigerians to seek timely care to ensure best treatment outcome, adding that the disease is treatable and can be resolved after a while but in rare cases.
“Over the years, there has been advancement in the treatment outcome for epilepsy, there are new drugs and surgery options people can opt for, for better treatment outcome.
“Instead of going from one prayer or herbal place to get treatment for epilepsy, it is advisable to seek timely care in health facilities to prevent loss of cell in the brain,” she said.
Obianozie urged the government to do more to strengthen neurological care in the country. NAN