Karachi: Epilepsy is fully curable, it is not contagious and people with epilepsy are not mentally unstable, said Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui, the noted neurophysician of the country and President Epilepsy Foundation Pakistan on Wednesday, urging the society to break the barriers and raise awareness.

Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui was talking on the occasion of the Purple Day, observed by the Epilepsy Foundation of Pakistan by holding a free medical camp at the Bahadurabad Clinic, where she examined patients. She said epilepsy is fully treatable. With proper medication and care, most people with epilepsy can lead normal lives.

She said medicines are essential to treat this illness. She requested the government to subsidize these medications on an urgent basis. The subsidized medicines can make a huge difference in managing epilepsy, but availability and affordability are major concerns in Pakistan, she said.

She said there are a lot of myths about this disease. She clarified that epilepsy is not a curse or possession. It's not contagious. People with epilepsy are not crazy or mentally unstable.

She urged: Let's work together to reduce stigma and promote inclusion for people with epilepsy. She said family, friends, and community support can greatly improve the lives of people with epilepsy.

Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui stressed that awareness is the key. Educating ourselves and others can help prevent misconceptions and promote understanding, she said.

She demands that the government should support us by increasing medical facilities and subsidizing the medicines. "Subsidized epilepsy medicines and improved healthcare infrastructure is a must."

She asked to encourage schools, workplaces, and communities to support people with epilepsy. She asked to organize workshops, seminars, and campaigns to educate people about epilepsy.