The World Health Organization has identified the actions required to ensure an integrated approach to the care and management of epilepsy. The guidelines are intended to respond to the needs of patients in many aspects.
The WHO has issued new guidelines on the care of people with epilepsy
Published Dec. 13, 2022 12:12
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Elepsy affects over 50 million people worldwide. This disease causes 125,000 deaths annually. related deaths. Around the world, people with epilepsy continue to be victims of stigma, discrimination and human rights abuses. They often encounter barriers in education and employment that effectively prevent them from fully participating in society.
WHO data show that many people with epilepsy do not receive the treatment necessary to control their seizures. Meanwhile, more than 70 percent of people with this disorder could live seizure-free if they had access to appropriate anti-epileptic treatment.
The authors of the document published by WHO outlined concrete actions, grouped under 11 specific levers first introduced in the operational framework for primary care, that will help to fill treatment gaps. In their opinion, what is needed above all is to ensure the provision of integrated services throughout life, in particular at the level of primary health care. It is also crucial to improve access to anti-epileptic drugs, as well as to provide appropriate training to health and social care professionals.
The WHO guidelines also cover activities in areas related to the functioning of society. According to them, stigmatization should be combated while promoting respect for human rights and full social integration of people with epilepsy, their families and carers.
