By Anum Naseem
KARACHI: The National Epilepsy Centre (NEC) JPMC, in partnership with Epilepsy Support Pakistan (ESP) and the Neurology Research and Patient Welfare Fund (NRPWF), held a press conference on National Epilepsy Day to call for urgent action to bridge Pakistan’s epilepsy treatment gap.
In her welcome address, Dr Hiba Mahmud described epilepsy as a common but treatable neurological disorder often hindered by stigma, misconceptions, and interrupted care. She highlighted the Comprehensive Epilepsy Control Programme of Pakistan (CECP), launched in 2001, which continues to provide integrated medical care, awareness, and community engagement.
The event featured a short documentary and patient narratives illustrating the challenges faced by epilepsy patients, including delayed diagnosis, interrupted treatment, and social exclusion, while demonstrating the life-changing impact of timely and continuous care.
Dr Zarine Mogal detailed the centre’s 25-year integrated programme, noting that over two million Pakistanis live with epilepsy. She emphasized that with proper support, patients can lead productive lives and highlighted the broader impact on families, stressing that epilepsy is not rare, contagious, or a reason for discrimination.
International solidarity was conveyed through messages from Donna Walsh, while composer and actor Arshad Mahmud expressed support for the cause. Shanaz Ramzi called for official recognition of 28 February as National Epilepsy Day in tribute to Abdul Sattar Edhi, a lifelong humanitarian who lived with epilepsy, urging media and government support.
Renowned actor and activist Hina Khwaja Bayat stressed the importance of seeking timely help for this treatable but often misunderstood condition. The press conference concluded with a question-and-answer session, reaffirming NEC’s commitment to comprehensive care, awareness, and stigma reduction.
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