Renowned neurophysician Dr. Fozia Siddiqui has made an urgent appeal to the government to subsidize epilepsy medications, and has described the availability and affordability of medicines in Pakistan as a major obstacle to treatment. Dr. Fozia Siddiqui, President of the Epilepsy Foundation Pakistan, emphasized that subsidized medicines can bring a significant change for patients struggling with this neurological disease.
Speaking on the occasion of “Purple Day” at a free medical camp organized by the foundation in Bahadurabad, Dr. Siddiqui said that epilepsy is a completely treatable disease. She stressed that with proper medication and care, most people with the condition can lead normal lives.
The internationally renowned neurophysician sought to dispel common misconceptions about the disease, clarifying that epilepsy is neither contagious nor a sign of mental instability. Dr. Siddiqui insisted that the condition is not incurable nor a cause for shame, highlighting the urgent need to eliminate societal misconceptions and superstitions.
She called on society to cooperate in reducing stigma and promoting the social inclusion of affected individuals, and to consider them an integral part of the community. She said that the support of family, friends, and the wider community can significantly improve the quality of life for people living with epilepsy.
Furthermore, Dr. Siddiqui appealed to educational institutions, workplaces, and factories to foster supportive environments for individuals with the condition. She also urged the public to organize workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to better educate society about epilepsy.