The New Nation - Internet Edition

The Society of Neurologists of Bangladesh and sanofi-aventiy Bangladesh, jointly organised a scientific seminer on "Recent advances in epilepsy" today in a costly city hotel. Prof. Louis Pierre Genton, renowned Neurologist and Epileptologist, Consultant, Epileptology, University Hospital Nord in France presented the key-note paper, highlighting the unique role of sodium valproate, chrono formulation in particular in treating epilepsy patients effectively.

The scientific session was inaugurated by Iftekharul Islam, Managing Director of sanofi-aventis Bangladesh, while Prof Anisul Haque, President of the Society of Neurologists of Bangladesh chaired the programme. Among others, Prof A. K. M Anwar Ullah, Secretary General and Prof Quazi Deen Mohammad, Vice President, Society of Neurologists of Bangladesh; Sheikh Nahar Mahmud, Director, Business Operations and Dr. Rezaul Farid Khan, Director, Medical Affairs of sanofi-aventis were also present in the programme and shared their valuable inputs on different aspects of epilepsy.

Globally it is estimated that there are nearly 50 million patients suffering from epilepsy, of which three fourth belongs to developing countries. 1.5-2.0 million people are suffering from epilepsy in Bangladesh. Epilepsy is often maltreated in our country, especially in rural areas, due to low level of education and lack of knowledge among the general people. There, epilepsy is treated by 'quacks', or 'kabiraj' instead of qualified doctors. But epileptic patients can live normal life like a healthy person, if he/she gets proper treatment with appropriate medication and care.

As a leading global healthcare company, sanofi-aventis has chosen to be active in major humanitarian and social causes 'because health matters'. As a part of its social commitments, sanofi-aventis Bangladesh has joined hands with the physicians' community to support in various campaigns against epilepsy-and related issues.