Commentary: international epilepsy day.

Abstract

The Commission on European Affairs of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE-CEA) read with great pleasure the letter by Dr. MA Aleem, concerning a world day for epilepsy, which was published in Epilepsia. We agree that an international day for epilepsy would contribute significantly to overcome the problems caused by misconceptions and myths about epilepsy. The ILAE-CEA together with the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) has successfully organized the European Epilepsy Day since 2011. These events proved to be extremely helpful in attracting the attention of the society and of the political decision makers to epilepsy. We are convinced that an international day for epilepsy would be even more efficient in doing this; therefore, the ILAE-CEA fully supports this initiative. CEA is also in favor of merging the regional and the International Epilepsy Days. Celebrating one and the same day all over the world is likely to be more effective than to split the attention into different days. However, regional and national activities should continue to play important roles in the International Epilepsy Day. It is difficult to find the best timing for an International Epilepsy Day, as one has to take into account various competing events worldwide. The IBE and ILAE executive committees suggested the second Monday in February. The CEA supports this date. Fortunately it coincides with the European Epilepsy Day, facilitating the merging between the regional European and the international events. We suggest naming the event International Epilepsy Day. Best wishes I have no conflicts of interest to disclose. I confirm that I have read the Journal's position on issues involved in ethical publication and affirm that this report is consistent with those guidelines. Sándor Beniczky is liaison for communication, ILAE-CEA.