Epilepsy in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Health Challenge and DREAM’s Commitment
Epilepsy is one of the most widespread neurological diseases in the world, affecting millions of people. However, in Sub-Saharan Africa, it represents a serious health emergency, with an incidence up to three times higher than in other continents.
Two decades ago, it was estimated that around 10 million people in the region suffered from epilepsy; today, with the population doubling, this number has exceeded 20 million. Many factors contribute to the spread of the disease, including malaria, neurocysticercosis, head trauma, perinatal brain injuries, malnutrition, and limited access to medical care. Despite the severity of the situation, over 75% of affected individuals do not receive the necessary medication to control the condition.
The DREAM Program is committed to ensuring free access to treatment for all. In a region like Sub-Saharan Africa, where the shortage of neurologists is critical—with an average of one neurologist per two million inhabitants—the training of healthcare workers becomes crucial. For this reason, DREAM, in partnership with the Italian Society of Neurology (SIN), organizes continuous training programs for local healthcare staff, enabling clinicians to acquire specific skills for managing epilepsy.
Beyond training, another major challenge is the availability of effective and safe antiepileptic drugs. In many Sub-Saharan African countries, these medications are difficult to obtain, expensive, and sometimes of poor quality or counterfeit, leading to severe consequences for patients. The program is dedicated to ensuring a continuous and controlled supply of safe medications, preventing treatment interruptions that could jeopardize patient care.
Epilepsy is not only a medical challenge but also a social one. Even today, in many communities, it is seen as a curse or the result of witchcraft, leading to marginalization and discrimination against those affected. This stigma reduces opportunities for education and employment and can have a devastating impact on mental health, increasing the risk of suicide. To combat this issue, DREAM goes beyond providing medical care by promoting awareness campaigns and support for patients and their families.
Additionally, to improve access to specialized care, DREAM has introduced a free telemedicine service, including tele-neurology. Local centers can send EEG recordings to specialists in Europe, ensuring more accurate and timely diagnoses. This innovative approach represents a significant step forward in epilepsy management.
Finally, for nearly ten years, the program has integrated HIV management with the treatment of non-communicable diseases, including epilepsy. This multidisciplinary care model allows for a more effective response to the health challenges of Sub-Saharan Africa, providing comprehensive and sustainable assistance to millions of people.
The DREAM Program continues to work to ensure that no one is left behind, offering care, training, and hope to those suffering from epilepsy in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions.