Karachi (February 12, 2025):
The National Institute of Child Health (NICH), in collaboration with the Pakistan Pediatric Association (PPA) and the Child Neurology Society, organized **World Epilepsy Day** on Tuesday at the NICH Auditorium in Karachi. The event aimed to raise awareness about epilepsy in children, highlight treatment options, and address the challenges faced by both patients and healthcare professionals.
The gathering brought together leading pediatric neurologists, healthcare experts, and families affected by epilepsy. The panel of experts included **Prof. Shahnaz Ibrahim** (Pediatric Neurology, Aga Khan University Hospital), **Prof. Iqbal A. Memon**, and **Prof. Shazia Kulsoom**, who also served as the event’s organizer in her capacity as Head of Pediatric Neurology at NICH. **Prof. Mohsina Noor Ibrahim**, Secretary General of PPA Central, and **Dr. Saad Ullah Chachar**, General Secretary of PPA Sindh, coordinated the session.
In her welcome address, Prof. Mohsina Noor Ibrahim emphasized the significance of **International Epilepsy Day**, stating that it serves as a crucial platform to educate the public, reduce stigma, and encourage support for individuals living with epilepsy.
Prof. Shazia Kulsoom highlighted that epilepsy is a treatable condition and, with proper medical care, children can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. She underscored the importance of educating healthcare professionals and promoting early intervention to improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Farida Jan, Associate Professor and Section Head of Pediatric Neurology at Sindh Institute of Child Health & Neonatology (SICHIN), delivered an insightful talk on the **classification and management of childhood epilepsy**.
Dr. Khairunnisa Mukhtar, Assistant Professor and Director of the Pediatric Neurology Fellowship at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), discussed resistant epilepsy and non-pharmacological treatment approaches for the condition.
The panel of experts, including Prof. Shahnaz Ibrahim and Prof. Iqbal A. Memon, provided valuable insights on the early diagnosis, treatment, and management of epilepsy in children. They highlighted that epilepsy is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders worldwide, affecting approximately 50 million people, with children comprising a significant portion. Notably, around 10% of childhood epilepsy cases develop before the age of 19. In Pakistan, epilepsy affects approximately 1% of the total population, with a higher prevalence observed in developing countries.
During the session, Dr. Mohsina Noor Ibrahim stressed the importance of dietary management, advising against excessive sugar intake in children.
The event underscored the urgent need for greater awareness and support for both patients and caregivers.
As the session concluded, Dr. Saad Ullah Chachar delivered a vote of thanks. To foster a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, the event also featured fun activities and inspiring success stories of epilepsy patients who have successfully managed their condition and lead normal lives. Prof. Shazia Kulsoom organized a gift distribution ceremony for children with epilepsy, making the event more memorable for young patients and their families.
