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Epilepsy Ireland & OACS Ireland seek response from Minister Donnelly regarding Independent Inquiry on Sodium Valproate

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Together with our colleagues in OACS Ireland, Epilepsy Ireland have written again to Minister for Health, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, following up on our request for an urgent meeting to discuss the establishment of an independent inquiry for families impacted by Sodium Valproate (Epilim). Our further correspondence comes nine weeks after our initial correspondence with the Minister on this matter in the wake of the "First Do No Harm" report in the UK.

Study suggests epilepsy deaths are not decreasing despite advances in treatments

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A study presented at the European Academy of Neurology annual congress has found that mortality rates for epilepsy-related deaths did not decrease between 2009 and 2015 despite advances in treatment during this time.

The study was conducted by Dr. Gashirai Mbizvo from the University of Edinburgh who analysed anonymous data from healthcare settings around Scotland of patients who had died between 2009 & 2015.

Smoking in pregnancy identified as world's first environmental risk factor for a common type of epilepsy

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A new study published in the Lancet has identified the world's first environmental risk factor for a common form of childhood epilepsy, Benign Childhood Epilepsy with Centro-temporal Spikes (BECTS). BECTS is also known as Benign Rolandic Epilepsy and accounts for about 20% of all childhood epilepsy. The mechanisms behind BECTS are not well understood, but but it is thought that genetic factors play a role in susceptibility to it.

Study finds no increased risk of birth defects or developmental disorders associated with paternal use of AEDs

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In recent weeks, we have made calls alongside our colleagues in OACS Ireland for an Independent Inquiry for families affected by Sodium Valproate (Epilim) where the drug was prescribed to women of child-bearing age. The effects of exposure to sodium valproate in utero are well documented, with 30-40% of children exposed to valproate being born with a neurodevelopmental condition and 10% being born with a congenital malformation.

EFNA publish survey findings on Stigma & Neurological Conditions

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The European Federation of Neurological Associations have published the findings from their recent international survey on stigma experienced by those living with a neurological condition across Europe.

We recently shared the survey across our social media channels and we would like to thank everyone who took the time to take part.