The world marks International Epilepsy Day today in an effort to raise more awareness, fight misconceptions about this neurological disorder, and improve support for its victims. It’s estimated that globally, some 65 million suffer from the disorder, including thousands in Malta, the focus remains the need to secure better medical services and combating social stigma.
In a recent statement on this occasion, the Nationalist Party (PN) expressed appreciation for all the healthcare professionals, organisations, and caregivers involved in the support of persons suffering from epilepsy. It said the patient with epilepsy must be given all attention, being assured that the best available medical treatment is within reach, adding that social stigma can only be fought through education so that the public is well-informed and able to offer empathy and support to those affected.
The PN highlighted the need that all drugs for epilepsy should be stocked at all times and pressed the government for ensuring that this essential drug and especially the rescue medication newly formulated should never ever run out of stock. Furthermore, they claimed that specialised epilepsy nurses should also be included in the health care system so that patients can obtain expert care.
Furthermore, the party called for all European Medicines Agency-approved epilepsy treatments to be added to Malta’s national formulary. This would enable patients to access their prescribed medication through the POYC scheme, reducing financial burdens and ensuring uninterrupted treatment.
Organisations like the Caritas Malta Epilepsy Association are still working earnestly to help people with epilepsy. CMEA offers free educational training to schools, at workplaces, and even to people who work in emergencies to help remove the myths and generally engage the public on appropriate responses towards epileptic seizures. The association also holds support meetings for individuals and families affected by the condition, guiding them through and making them feel part of it.
Various organizations, including the Caritas Malta Epilepsy Association (CMEA), continue to work tirelessly to support individuals with epilepsy. The CMEA provides free educational training to schools, workplaces, and emergency responders, helping to dispel myths and equip the public with the knowledge to respond appropriately to seizures. The association also runs support meetings for individuals and families affected by epilepsy, offering guidance and a sense of community.
Frank Portelli, President of Caritas Malta Epilepsy Association, encourages individuals affected by epilepsy to reach out to Caritas Malta and attend support meetings. These gatherings provide valuable information on tools and skills developed by the association to help individuals manage their condition more effectively.
To mark International Epilepsy Day, CMEA has released an informational leaflet highlighting key facts about epilepsy in Malta. According to the leaflet, around 5000 people in Malta are affected by epilepsy. It emphasizes the urgent need to reduce stigma, increase public awareness, secure more funding for research, enhance workplace support, employ specialised epilepsy nurses, and ensure continuous access to vital medications such as rescue medicine.
The leaflet also reinforces that epilepsy is an invisible condition, with 70% of individuals managing seizures effectively through medication. It clarifies that epilepsy is not contagious and includes guidelines on how to provide first aid during a seizure, along with contact details for Caritas Malta Epilepsy Association for those seeking support.
Still, doctors in Malta also point out that a diagnosis before proper treatment with specialty care would enhance the medical outcome. In fact, Mater Dei Hospital has an important section like its Neurology Department in diagnosing and monitoring epilepsy conditions using diagnostic machines like EEG and MRI scanners.
This year’s theme for International Epilepsy Day is “Step Up Against Stigma,” showing that the social issues of the condition never settle. Misconceptions about the condition can led to discrimination in workplaces, schools, and even public places, affecting individuals’ quality of life.
Social media campaigns under #EpilepsyDay2025 and #EndEpilepsyStigma are encouraging people to share personal experiences and factual information to help break down stereotypes.
For further information about epilepsy support and resources available in Malta, one may refer to the Caritas Malta Epilepsy Association website or health professionals who can give the necessary advice in managing the condition.
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