International Epilepsy Day 2016 - Awareness Session at Medanta Medicity

Gurgaon: Medanta Medicity organized an awareness session on the occasion of International Epilepsy Day 2016. During the event, renowned Neurologist, Dr. AN Jha, Chairman at Medanta Institute of Neurosciences, and Dr. Atma Ram, Consultant (Epilepsy Expert) at Medanta Institute of Neurosciences, shared the advancements being made by science in the field of epilepsy treatment.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. AN Jha said, “Epilepsy is emerging as an epidemic in India, affecting over 6 million people. Out of these, the majority of the people don't receive proper diagnosis and treatment. This grave situation needs to be addressed by the healthcare community and government effectively.”

“In recent past, modern science has made great advancements in epilepsy treatment. More than 80% of cases can be solved by surgery or drug. Also, Ketogenic diet is emerging as an efficient and feasible treatment for children suffering from this condition.” Dr. Jha added.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Atma Ram Bansal, Consultant Neurologist who is an expert in Epilepsy at Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon, said, “Living with epilepsy is not about making it the primary focus of your lives. It’s about acknowledging its presence and managing it to the best of your ability in order to lead a life full of happiness and love. This Epilepsy Day, let’s spread awareness, win over Epilepsy and believe ‘Yes, I can beat it’.”

Medanta – The Medicity recently treated a 9-year-old daughter of Krishna Saini, a Gurgaon resident, with a Ketogenic diet. The patient was suffering from epilepsy and parents noticed frequent seizures, which could not be treated with medication. The diet transformed the life of Saini’s daughter and fits were managed effectively. During the session, doctors presented many such case studies and shared new methods of treatment.

Another patient who belongs to Pakistan had epilepsy for more than 25 years underwent epilepsy surgery and is doing very well. We have many such stories to share. Dr. Aditya Gupta – Senior Neurosurgeon and expert in epilepsy surgery told, “Epilepsy surgery is a very effective and practically harmless surgery for patients whose seizures are not controlled with medication.”

According to the World Health Organisation, 50 million people in the world suffer from epilepsy, a condition of spontaneously recurring seizures. A seizure is a sudden discharge of nervous system electrical activity that usually causes unexpected changes in behaviour, motor functions, sensation, or consciousness. This condition has often been associated with stigma, as it has been historically misunderstood as being due to a curse by evil neighbours or Gods, or of being possessed by the devil. It is also sometimes misinterpreted as mental illness or a handicap.