2023 AES: Hot Topics Symposium | Health Equity in Vulnerable Populations-Epilepsy in Conflict Zones and War Affected Regions

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Olga Tereshchenko, an Associate Professor at the University of Nebraska, discussed epilepsy treatment challenges in conflict zones, particularly Ukraine. Amid personal connections to the war, she highlighted efforts to maintain epilepsy care despite the challenges. The Russian invasion led to massive healthcare disruptions in Ukraine, exacerbating medication shortages. Dr. Tereshchenko shared grassroots initiatives by physicians to ensure continuous supply, emphasizing the importance of rapid anti-seizure medication (ASM) conversion strategies. Collaborations with international organizations like the International League Against Epilepsy and individual volunteer efforts have been crucial. Dr. Tereshchenko underscored the need for systemic preparedness, drawing lessons for future conflicts and disasters. Additionally, attention was given to addressing emerging needs like trauma-related epilepsy and providing prosthetics to many amputees. The talk concluded with a call to action for medical communities to enhance local and global crisis response and support systems for vulnerable populations.

Asset Subtitle

Presenter: Olga Taraschenko, MD, PhD

Keywords

epilepsy treatment

conflict zones

medication shortages

anti-seizure medication

trauma-related epilepsy

crisis response