Epilepsy in Lao PDR: From research to treatment intervention

ABSTRACT

Epilepsy in Lao Peoples’ Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is a neglected condition. After 5 years of research, we established some baseline information for people living with epilepsy in Lao PDR. Prevalence was 7.7 per thousand population. Stigma and misconceptions were common. Traditional beliefs and practices were prevalent. The treatment gap was 90% or more. Phenobarbital was available in less than 55% of pharmacies in the capital city of Vientiane and not available in many rural areas. There are two neurologists in the country. The neurology investigational facilities are basic, mainly concentrated in the capital city. The studies demonstrate that epilepsy is a public health concern in Lao PDR. The authors proposed a treatment intervention project involving multiple partners and a step-by-step approach.