Dal researchers help tackle high epilepsy rates in remote Zambia

Researchers from Dalhousie University are leading an initiative in rural Zambia to combat the high prevalence of epilepsy and reduce the stigma that deeply affects individuals living with the condition. 

Mr. Titima Innocent from Lusaka University Teaching Hospital, far right, performs an EEG test on a young boy from Mfuwe, while his mother stays close and his grandmother observes from afar. (Anna Minarik photo)

Epilepsy, a brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, impacts millions of people worldwide. Its challenges are magnified in resource-constrained settings where access to diagnosis, treatment, and public understanding are often lacking.  

The Dal researchers have joined forces with Zambian health-care professionals to create the Mfuwe Epilepsy Foundation, with a focus on improving epilepsy care in rural Zambia where health infrastructure is limited. Named after Mfuwe, a region with some of the highest epilepsy rates in Africa, the foundation aims to improve patient outcomes and empower the local community through culturally informed approaches in an area where widespread misconceptions about the condition often discourage individuals from seeking treatment.  

“Our foundation’s key areas of focus include improving diagnostics, expanding access to anti-seizure medications, and educating patients and their families on effective seizure management,” says Dr. Alon Friedman, the Dennis Chair in Epilepsy Research at Dal and lead on the initiative.

Transforming epilepsy care

The foundation’s work involves training local health-care providers in the use of portable technology to enhance diagnostics in rural areas and offering guidance on medication adherence. Team members will also leverage telemedicine to address health-care access challenges in remote communities. 

By implementing educational initiatives in schools, collaborating with local leaders, and launching public-awareness campaigns, the foundation is fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals living with epilepsy. 

"Our initiative tackles the widespread social stigma surrounding epilepsy, while ensuring that children with the condition receive the education they deserve," says Andrew Malunga, lead health advocate from Zambia.

A young girl with suspected epilepsy undergoes an EEG test for evaluation as part of efforts to improve epilepsy care in rural Zambia. (Anna Minarik photo)

The researchers plan to eventually establish a dedicated epilepsy centre in Mfuwe that will offer a full range of services, from diagnostic testing to rehabilitation, ensuring patients have access to the continuous support they need. 

Expanding the reach

Graduate researchers Alaa Abu Ahmad, Laith Alhadeed and Abdulla Alshanti have broadened the initiative's impact by establishing a student-led epilepsy society back in Halifax.  

Their advocacy efforts include organizing events, such as their recent plant sale to raise funds for vital anti-seizure medications. The society has also collaborated with Cassidy Megan, founder of Purple Day — a global epilepsy awareness movement — to extend their reach and amplify their message both locally and internationally. 

"It’s truly heartwarming to see how our small efforts can make a significant difference in the lives of people, even those thousands of miles away,” says Alhadeed. 

The society has launched a website where anyone interested can learn more about the initiative and donate.  

“Your support helps provide life-saving medication and vital resources to those in need," says Abu Ahmad.

Written by Laith Alhadeed, published in DALNews - January 15, 2025