Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, still holds a stigma in the Philippines, but efforts are being made to raise awareness and dispel common misconceptions about the disorder, said an expert of the Philippine League Against Epilepsy (PLAE).

“Hindi sya parusa ng Diyos, at usual na mga kaalaman natin, ‘yung mga sinaunang kaalaman na baka sinapian o na-possessed o kaya nakulam or witchcraft (It is not God's punishment. It was our usual knowledge, the ancient knowledge that it may have been possessed or bewitched or witchcraft),” PLAE vice president of external affairs Dr. Joyce Macasaet-Smith said during the Department of Health (DOH) #MediaSolusyon Kapihan with Media Partners online forum on Sept. 6.

Macasaet-Smith explained that epilepsy can be caused by a variety of factors, including brain tumors, genetic factors, traumatic brain injuries, strokes, central nervous system infections like meningitis, and congenital malformations.

She emphasized how many people with epilepsy experience "discrimination" as a result of the stigma that still exists, particularly in the workplace.

Organizations like the PLAE are actively involved in awareness-raising campaigns and educational initiatives, according to Smith-Macasaet, to provide accurate information to the public and foster a better understanding of the condition.

“Sa iba't ibang mga probinsya, maraming mga different translation kung ano 'yung epilepsy, 'yun pa lang ay nagkakaroon na ng connotation sa mga patients. I think marami pa rin [discrimination], although because of the awareness that we are spreading, itong mga initiatives ng DOH, 'yung help ng social media natin ay mas malawak ang ating nararating para mas matulungan natin na maunawaan ng mas malawak kung ano ba talaga 'yung epilepsy (In different provinces, there are various translations of what epilepsy is, and that alone already carry connotation among patients. I think there is still discrimination, although because of the awareness we are spreading through the initiatives of the Department of Health and the social media, we are reaching a wider audience to help them understand what epilepsy really is),” she said.

Unless they have specific learning disabilities, people with epilepsy can lead normal lives and pursue education, Smith-Macasaet said.

In addition, there are legal safeguards in place to stop discrimination against people with epilepsy at work.

She also pointed out that epilepsy is a "treatable" condition that is frequently treated with the proper anti-epileptic drugs. Epilepsy sufferers can live happy lives with the right care and assistance.

Smith-Macasaet emphasized the importance of having a positive outlook on life, having family and community support, and having access to excellent medical care as necessary components for successfully managing epilepsy. (Zekinah Elize Espina)