…on epilepsy
BY KWANELE TSABEDZE
MBABANE – Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi has applauded the country’s efforts to cater for the epileptic.
The Minister was speaking at a certification ceremony for health workers who recently completed their training on epilepsy by the Taiwan Health Care Improvement Project.
“The huge burden of uncontrolled epilepsy and of epilepsy-related deaths in developing countries, including Eswatini, are a cause for concern,” noted the Minister.
“Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent neurological conditions, and remains an important cause of disability and mortality worldwide. Epilepsy knows no age, racial, social class, geographic, or national boundaries,” lamented the Minister.
She also revealed that the Ministry of Health routine data indicates that 4 655 people were diagnosed with epilepsy from the year 2019 to 2022. She added that it is acknowledged that more than 80% of people with epilepsy live in developing countries, where the condition remains largely undiagnosed and untreated.
“Therefore, epilepsy has become a national health priority, and there lies an immediate imperative to maximize the quality of life for people with epilepsy in Eswatini,” she added.
“I am pleased to announce that 249 doctors and nurses from all regions of the country have been trained through the Taiwan Health Care Improvement Project. This effort will most definitely ensure better access to care for people living with epilepsy in Eswatini,” applauded the Minister.
The Minister added that these trained personnel will greatly contribute towards easing the load at the only National Psychiatric Hospital in the country, and Mbabane Government Hospital where epilepsy cases are commonly seen.
