National Epilepsy Day is annually observed across India on November 17th to create awareness about Epilepsy, a neurological disorder in which brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or fits and loss of awareness.
The day aims to educate people about epilepsy, its symptoms and treatment.
- The day is observed by the Epilepsy Foundation India.
Symbol:
lavender or purple is the official colour of epilepsy and lavender or purple colour ribbon is recognized for those who suffer from epilepsy.
Why lavender?
Linalool, floral and spicy terpene alcohol most prominent in lavender helps to relax the brain and nervous system.
Background:
National Epilepsy Day was started as a nationwide campaign by the Epilepsy Foundation of India
Epilepsy Foundation of India is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to the welfare of people suffering from epilepsy
National Epilepsy Awareness Month – November:
National Epilepsy Awareness Month is annually observed during the month of November.
About Epilepsy:
i.Epilepsy is a chronic non-communicable disease of the brain characterized by recurrent seizures which include brief episodes of involuntary movement of the body (partial) or the entire body (generalized) and are sometimes accompanied by loss of consciousness and control of bowel or bladder function.
ii.Seizure episodes occur due to excessive electrical discharges in a group of brain cells.
Cause:
The cause of Epilepsy is divided into 6 categories: structural, genetic, infectious, metabolic, immune and unknown.
Around 30 to 40% of epilepsy is caused by genetic predisposition
Key Points:
i.According to the World Health Organisation(WHO), more than 50 million people across the globe has epilepsy and around 80% of people with epilepsy live in low- and middle-income countries.
ii.It is estimated that with proper diagnosis and treatment around 70% of people with epilepsy could be seizure-free.