Chandigarh: Command Hospital (WC) Chandimandir, under the aegis of Western Command, observed International Epilepsy Day with a series of impactful academic and patient-centric initiatives, highlighting awareness, early diagnosis and stigma reduction. A dedicated programme for children with epilepsy and their caregivers, themed “Breaking the Stigma: Turning Stories into Action”, set the tone for the day.Maj Gen Harkirat Singh, Commandant, Command Hospital (WC) Chandimandir, described epilepsy as a public health challenge that demands knowledge, compassion and collaboration. On the occasion, patient information resources, including the ‘My Seizure Diary’ book and the Paediatric OPD follow-up book, were released.A public health lecture covering essential aspects of epilepsy and domiciliary care for patients with seizures was delivered through an engaging role play. Brig Pawan Dhull, consultant neurologist and Deputy Commandant, chaired the panel discussion titled ‘Sabse Sanvad’, which addressed common myths and facts through an interactive session. A multispecialty CME on Comprehensive Epilepsy Management witnessed active participation from doctors across the Tricity. The panel of experts included neurologists, paediatric neurologists, neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists involved in the care of persons with epilepsy from PGIMER Chandigarh, AIIMS New Delhi and Army Hospital (R&R) Delhi. The chief guest, Prof Dheeraj Khurana, senior consultant Neurologist, PGIMER Chandigarh, highlighted epilepsy as one of the most common yet misunderstood neurological disorders worldwide. He emphasised that despite major advances in diagnostics, pharmacotherapy and surgical management, a significant treatment gap persists due to delayed diagnosis, social stigma and lack of awareness. The platform provided an opportunity for leading experts to share knowledge, experiences and best practices from their premier institutions. Cutting-edge technologies and advancements, such as stereotactic radiosurgery and precision medicine in genetic epilepsies, were discussed in detail, along with insights into neuroplasticity and the potential of the developing brain for improved outcomes. Maj Gen D Vivekanand, Major General (Med) Western Command and Chief Patron of the event, felicitated the experts and dignitaries and commended the team effort in raising awareness through a series of educational initiatives. He underscored the importance of strengthening collective resolve to deliver holistic, patient-centred epilepsy care.
