National Epilepsy Day

Tags: Important Days

Every year, November 17 is celebrated as National Epilepsy Day.

Important facts

• Its purpose is to create awareness among the victims of epilepsy and their relatives.

• The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are 50 million people with epilepsy worldwide, of whom 80 percent live in developing countries.

• Although epilepsy is treatable, three-quarters of those affected in underdeveloped countries do not receive the necessary care.

• About 10 million people in India experience seizures associated with epilepsy.

• Every year the second Monday of February is observed as International Epilepsy Day (IED). 

• In 2022, International Epilepsy Day was celebrated on 14th February.

Background of the day

• Epilepsy Foundation of India established National Epilepsy Day as a national campaign to reduce epilepsy in India.

• Dr Nirmal Surya established the Epilepsy Foundation of India in 2009 in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

• This non-profit Epilepsy Foundation aims to improve the quality of life of people and change societal perceptions regarding epilepsy.

What is Epilepsy?

• Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder in the world.

• In this disorder, brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or abnormal behaviour and loss of sensation.

• Although anyone can develop epilepsy, it is more commonly seen in young children and adults, and in males than females.

• Changes in taste, smell, vision, hearing or touch, dizziness, trembling in the limbs, staring, doing the same thing over and over again are its main symptoms.