Launched in 2015, thenternational Epilepsy Day is a joint initiative of two global institutions, the International Bureau for Epilepsy and the International League Against Epilepsy. Each year, it brings together organizations and events focusing on this common but little-known disease, and represents an opportunity for each country to highlight the problems faced by patients, their families and carers.
Stop rejection
For the Mauritian NGO EDYCS Epilepsy Group, reminding them that they are not alone, and helping them to take their rightful place in society, simply means defending their rights! Founded more than 25 years ago, the organization is involved in the care of epileptics and continues its work of supporting them and their families, as well as raising public awareness of the many prejudices that exist.
Because epilepsy affects so many aspects of life, the stigma of the disease is harder to deal with than the disease itself!
People with epilepsy continue to be the target of discrimination and human rights violations. Face daily obstacles in education and employment. Are excluded from social and community life. The primary illness of these unfortunate targets then presents a comorbidity with depression, among others.
“Given that epilepsy has significant personal, health, economic and social consequences for people living with the disorder, as well as their families, the answer to the problem is none other than the inclusion and commitment of the whole of society,” said Dévora Kestel, WHO Director for Mental Health and Substance Abuse.
Key figures
This chronic brain disorder is one of the most common neurological diseases in the world, affecting 50 million people worldwide and about 25 million of them in the United States. 000 on our island and in Rodrigues. In Mauritius, almost 65% of sufferers live in precarious conditions, and 80% depend solely on disability pensions. Behind these horrifying figures lies an even more horrifying estimate: 70% of patients could live a normal, seizure-free life if their epilepsy were properly diagnosed and treated. Given that heart disease is up to eight times more common in people with epilepsy, this is a matter of urgency!
An intersectoral global action plan on epilepsy and other neurological disorders was adopted last year by the WHA (World Health Assembly) and established until 2031. This prevention and protection project includes resolutions and commitments based on real indicators.
It offers patients and their carers genuine medical, social and psychological support, because dignity is no less important than health! EDYCS Epilepsy Group has always been committed to this approach!
Contacts:
Tel 213 1733 – 8 Dr Yves Cantin Street, Port Louis
edycs.org@intnet.mu
https://www.edycseg.org/
