International Epilepsy Day 2024: International Epilepsy Day, observed on the second Monday of February, is an occasion to raise awareness about the difficulties epileptics face on a daily basis. This year’s event occurs on February 12th. Epilepsy, which is also referred to as seizure disorder, is among the oldest recognized medical conditions and ranks fourth among all known neurological disorders.
The condition induces a transient cessation of electrical activity in the brain, resulting in recurrent seizures. Despite the fact that epilepsy affects 65 million people worldwide, it still carries some social stigma. The purpose of International Epilepsy Day is to inform the public about epilepsy and to instruct individuals on how to better assist those who are afflicted with the condition.
International Epilepsy Day History
The International League Against Epilepsy and the International Bureau for Epilepsy have collaborated to establish International Epilepsy Day. Every day since its inception, the two organizations have coordinated a variety of events.
A theme is selected nearly annually to direct the course of the day. The motif for 2018 was “This is Me,” while in 2016 it was “Yes, I can!” Furthermore, it was “Putting Epilepsy in the Picture” in 2017. As the inaugural observance of the holiday, no official theme was established for 2015. Additionally, no theme was selected in 2019.
Epilepsy is among the most ancient medical conditions documented globally, with documentation dating back to the inception of written records. Undoubtedly, it was regarded as a spiritual condition during that era. A 2000 B.C. ancient Mesopotamian text described a person who underwent an exorcism with the help of a moon deity. The ancient Babylonians ascribed seizures to malevolent spirit possession. In the same way that the ancient Greeks regarded epilepsy as a spiritual possession, they linked it to divine interventions and brilliance.
Additionally, the stigma surrounding epilepsy has historical roots. Individuals without epilepsy were not permitted to consume food or drink from the same plates or containers in ancient Rome. During the latter half of the 20th century, certain regions of Africa held the belief that epilepsy was transmissible and caused by possession, witchcraft, or poisoning.
Epilepsy is mentioned in the “Code of Hammurabi,” the most extensive, well-organized, and well-preserved legal document from the ancient Near East, demonstrating its historical significance. It is defined as a stipulation within the Code that permits the return of a slave in exchange for recompense. “The Edwin Smith Papyrus,” an ancient Egyptian medical text, also contains a reference to epilepsy.
International Epilepsy Day is observed today in over 120 countries across the globe.
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FAQs for International Epilepsy Day
What day does National Epilepsy Day fall on?
March 26 is observed as Epilepsy Awareness Day in the United States. Comparable objectives govern this day to International Epilepsy Day.
Why does the color purple represent epilepsy?
Purple has been designated as the official awareness color of epilepsy due to its association with lavender, the international flower of epilepsy. A Canadian teen with epilepsy named Cassidy Megan chose the color in 2008.
Why is International Epilepsy Day observed?
This day aims to promote consciousness, eliminate the social disapproval associated with the condition, and furnish a forum for individuals to share their personal encounters.
Observing International Epilepsy Day: A Guide
Attend a gathering
There are hundreds of events that occur throughout the globe. One may utilize the hashtag #InternationalEpilepsyDay to locate a nearby event wherein individuals afflicted with epilepsy can share their personal experiences and obtain vital information from disease experts.
A Donation
Donations to the Epilepsy Foundation are accepted on International Epilepsy Day. Funds from this source may potentially expedite the development of treatments for epilepsy and support research aimed at discovering a cure.
Employ purple
As purple is the official color of awareness for epilepsy, you may accessorize your ensemble with a dash of the hue on International Epilepsy Day. It does not matter whether you apply purple nail polish, dye your hair purple, or don a purple outfit; the key is to incorporate purple into some aspect of your appearance.
Five obscure facts regarding epilepsy
The dissolution of a marriage
In the United States, epilepsy was not regarded as a valid reason for annulling a marriage until 1971.
It may impede transportation.
Individuals with epilepsy face a twofold increased risk of being involved in a motor vehicle collision. Furthermore, certain nations require that individuals be seizure-free for a minimum of three years prior to being granted driving privileges.
Jerking is not typical of all seizures.
During seizures, certain individuals appear vacant and bewildered as they aimlessly meander.
One is its patron deity.
Saint Valentine is venerated as the patron saint of individuals afflicted with epilepsy within the Christian community.
Prince owned it.
Prince, a well-known musician, is among the numerous public personalities and celebrities who have been afflicted with epilepsy.
INTERNATIONAL EPILEPSY DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 12 | Monday |
| 2025 | February 10 | Monday |
| 2026 | February 9 | Monday |
