Epilepsy is one of the top five neurological disorders globally and the third most common in India, affecting around 50 million people worldwide, with one-fifth residing in India. Despite its prevalence, nearly 80% of epilepsy patients in India and other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) lack proper treatment. This lack of care results in significant premature mortality, disability, stigma, and economic losses. Key barriers include diagnostic, treatment, and resource gaps, such as a shortage of specialists.
To address these challenges, the STOP-Epilepsy (Scaling-up The COmpetency of Primary Care Workers to Manage Epilepsy by Task-Sharing) Clinical Research Centre aims to bridge treatment gaps by implementing a community-based, primary care model in three Indian districts. This model leverages low-cost technology, education, and community support to improve seizure control and quality of life. The initiative also focuses on training healthcare providers, increasing community awareness, and enhancing capacity for epilepsy care through digital solutions and a virtual research center.
The research center is funded by DBT-Wellcome Trust under its Team Science Grant program.