European Parliament, Brussels - 22 March, 2001 - Today experts in epilepsy called upon members of the European Parliament, the public and the medical community to share their knowledge and unite in action to improve the lives of the six million people with epilepsy in Europe2, with the launch of the European White Paper on Epilepsy. Eradication of Stigma, Discrimination in the Workplace, and Inadequate Research Funding were cited as three key focus areas requiring rapid improvement across Europe.
The White Paper on Epilepsy, supported by Mr John Bowis MEP in conjunction with EUCARE (EUropean Concerted Action and Research in Epilepsy), an educational initiative from UCB aimed at raising the profile of epilepsy across Europe, has been produced in a timely manner to take advantage of the European Parliament's new remit for Public Health. The White Paper has been created by EUCARE in partnership with the Commission on European Affairs of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) in support of the WHO-led epilepsy 'Out of the Shadows' Campaign - which has recently launched Phase II of its Campaign.
Epilepsy is the most common serious brain disorder in every country1, and yet still does not receive the attention it deserves. Mr John Bowis, MEP for London, host of the White Paper launch meeting in parliament and a campaigner for improved epilepsy care, states: 'This initiative is long overdue and provides us with the opportunity to focus our minds on what can and needs to be achieved for those with epilepsy. I cannot stress enough the urgency of action. Everyone, regardless of position in society, can affect the change outlined in this White Paper on Epilepsy.'
John Bowis continues:
'I am demonstrating my personal commitment by setting up 'Parliamentary Advocates for Epilepsy' a group of key MEPs specifically dedicated to bringing epilepsy to the forefront of parliamentary health issues, campaigning to improve existing legislation - particul
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Contact: Roseann Ward
roseann.ward@ketchumcomms.co.uk
44-0-20-7465-8752
Ketchum
21-Mar-2001