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 reporters in a telephone interview on Friday in commemoration of International Epilepsy Week.
This year’s theme is “Turning Stories into Action.” The day is commemorated annually to raise awareness and promote inclusion for people affected by epilepsy globally.
The expert described epilepsy as a brain disease characterized 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 compared to high-income ones.
“The brain is like a network. When there is a disconnection in one wire or it is not working well, it can result in seizures with symptoms like jerking, staring into space, and abnormal behavior, depending on the part of the brain affected.
“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 advised Nigerians to seek timely care to ensure the best treatment outcomes, adding that epilepsy is treatable and can be resolved after a while in many 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 outcomes.
“Instead of going from one prayer house or herbal place to get treatment for epilepsy, it is advisable to seek timely care in health facilities to prevent loss of brain cells,” she said.
Obianozie urged the government to do more to strengthen neurological care in the country.
