Only 120 neurologists nationwide; 300,000 new cases reported every year, essential drugs unavailable. PHOTO: FILE
Despite the high number of neurology-related cases in Pakistan, the country is severely lacking in terms of awareness and treatment options, leaving most patients at the mercy of quacks and “exorcists”.
This was the crux of discussion at a three-day “International Neurology Update and Sixth Biennial Stroke Conference” organised by Shifa International Hospital (SIH) on Saturday.
The conference addressed important neurological disorders including headaches, migraines, movement disorder, stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy.
An alarming 300,000 new cases are reported every year.
SIH consultant neurologist Dr Arsalan Ahmed said the country only has 120 qualified neurologists — a number insufficient to deal with the number of cases being reported.
Citing reasons behind this shortage, he said most students avoid opting for this field because it requires a lot of time, while those
who do prefer to move abroad for better pay packages, he said.
“The few existing neurologists are serving in urban areas and not in rural areas where they are needed most,” he said adding that in 20 years, the shortage of neurologists would only get more acute.
“We have to fight against the ‘neuro-phobia’ among medical students as there is a dire need to enhance postgraduate education in neurology to fill the gap,” said Pakistan Society of Neurology President Dr Sardar Alam.
Due to lack of awareness about neurological disorders, its patients are mostly taken to exorcists or isolated for fear of being possessed, said Dr Teepu Siddiqui.
He said that government should take this issue seriously and establish a centre of excellence for neurosciences in each province.
He further said that timely treatment of neurological issues can prevent many deaths. He also expressed his concern over the absence of some essential drugs to treat the conditions.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 29th, 2013.
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What a family or friends can play their role for a neuro patient ? Please suggest some for sake of us and that patient.