In the rural communities of Cameroon, the shortage of health personnel with expertise in epilepsy has reached a critical level, presenting a significant challenge to the provision of adequate healthcare for individuals affected by this condition. Furthermore, the lack of awareness surrounding epilepsy, coupled with prevalent myths and misconceptions, further compounds the issue, contributing to a climate of stigma and discrimination surrounding the condition. We recently started a monthly community outreach program to address these challenges. During these monthly community outreaches, we will educate community members about epilepsy, dispel myths, and promote understanding and acceptance. Additionally, we will provide free medical consultations to people with epilepsy and train local villages as community health workers. These community health workers will serve as a bridge between our organization and patients with epilepsy in their communities, helping to ensure that they receive the necessary care and support. By empowering local villages with knowledge and resources.
Our first community outreach was carried out from March 15–19 in some remote villages in the Ngokentuja Division of the North West region of Cameroon. These villages were Balikumbat, Bambalang, and Bamukumbit communities, which are among the hardest-hit communities of the ongoing sociopolitical crisis.
The president’s team educated the locals on epilepsy management and treatment while providing free consultations and anti-epileptic medications to those who have the condition. We also provided training to the community health workers on epilepsy awareness, first aid for seizures, and medication management. Additionally, we distributed informational materials to raise awareness about the condition and reduce stigma within the communities. The outreach was a success, with many individuals now better equipped to identify and support those living with epilepsy in their villages. Over 1000 people were sensitized, and over 200 people with epilepsy received medical assistance.
We also used the opportunity to start up a support group for people with epilepsy in some of the communities, where people with epilepsy will have a common platform to share their challenges and successes and encourage each other.
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