Improve health systems to manage epilepsy, expert says

From left: National Epilepsy Coordination Committee Chairman Paul Kioi, Bank of Africa Kenya Managing Director Ronald Marambii and Meru County Health Executive Bernard Muia flag off the Angaza Kifafa caravan on May 20, 2016. Prof Kioy said about 80 per cent epilepsy patients do not seek treatment. PHOTO | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • The NECC chairman observed that the situation has been exacerbated by lack of current data on the number of sufferers.
  • NECC in partnership with the Bank of Africa and other partners have so far held awareness campaigns in 10 counties.

With intense campaigns on epilepsy awareness being rolled out, experts have observed that stigma, lack of adequate and accessible health care are hampering the management of the condition.

When flagging off an epilepsy awareness campaign caravan in Meru on Friday, National Epilepsy Coordination Committee (NECC) Chairman Paul Kioy said about 80 per cent do not seek treatment.

Prof Kioy added that about two in every 100 people in Kenya suffer from the condition. "The challenges can easily be overcome through proper training of medics, awareness creation and treatment,” he said.

He lamented that people continue to suffer despite it being treatable, with some communities attributing it to witchcraft.

The NECC chairman observed that the situation has also been exacerbated by lack of current data on the number of sufferers.

"The only available epilepsy survey was done in Nakuru in 1972. There's need for county governments to conduct surveys and enhance awareness on epilepsy. This will help the government in planning,” he said.

Meru Health Executive William Muraah said the county government would sponsor a survey to establish the prevalence of the condition.

“People living with epilepsy can lead normal lives if the condition is managed. It is unfortunate that some end up with permanent injuries due to lack of awareness and stigma,” Dr Muraah said.

NECC was established in 2010 and in collaboration with the Bank of Africa and other partners, it has so far held awareness campaigns in 10 counties.