The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that approximately 50 million people
worldwide are living with epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological disorders globally. Nearly 80% of those affected live in low- and middle-income countries, where access to diagnosis, treatment, and specialist care remains limited. According to WHO, up to 70% of people with epilepsy could become seizure-free if they receive timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment with anti-seizure medicines.
WHO estimates that around five million new epilepsy cases are diagnosed each year, with higher rates in low- and middle-income countries due to factors such as birth injuries, head trauma, stroke, brain infections, and weak healthcare systems. The organisation also noted that about 75% of people with epilepsy in low-income countries do not receive the treatment they need, largely because of limited access to anti-seizure medicines, inadequate healthcare services, and a shortage of trained health professionals.
The organisation further stated that about 25% of epilepsy cases are preventable through improved maternal and newborn care, prevention of head injuries, better control of cardiovascular diseases, and effective management of infections affecting the brain. Beyond its health impact, WHO warned that epilepsy is often accompanied by stigma and discrimination, which can limit access to education, employment, and other opportunities. It called on countries to strengthen healthcare services, improve access to treatment, and enhance legal protections for people living with epilepsy.