In a message to mark International Epilepsy Day, commemorated worldwide today, the 10th of February, the Nationalist Party expressed its gratitude to all those working in this sector.

The Nationalist Party stressed that “one of the greatest challenges faced by individuals with this condition is the stigma they encounter. Addressing stigma requires education and awareness about epilepsy. It must also be ensured that the general public is better informed to show empathy towards those affected and their families.”

In a statement, the PN said that “the Government must ensure that individuals in our country who have epilepsy receive particular attention and all possible medical assistance available.”

Epilepsy is a condition that affects brain function and can cause frequent seizures. It is estimated that around 65 million people worldwide have this condition, representing approximately 1% of the global population, including in Malta, the PN said. “Investment and research in medicine worldwide have led to significant medical advancements in this field,” the PN said. “In Malta, we must ensure that those with this condition receive the best possible medication, with the necessary frequency, and without facing situations where these medicines are out of stock.”

It also insisted that “any newly developed medication should be made available to those in need of treatment, such as rescue medication. The Government must also ensure the availability of specialised epilepsy nurses.”

The PN said that it believes that all medicines approved by the European Medicines Agency should be included in the formulary. “This would allow those in need of these medications to feel confident in obtaining them through the POYC scheme, without having to incur significant expenses to manage their condition in the best possible way.”

The Nationalist Party concluded by saying that “as a nation, we must continue making the necessary investments to ensure that individuals with this condition can maintain or achieve a high quality of life, greater independence, and a safer existence.”

The statement was signed by Graziella Galea Shadow Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering and Adrian Delia Shadow Minister for Health.

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