Research Programs

Description

At the Tanzania Epilepsy Organisation (TEO), we understand that while awareness and support are crucial,long-term solutions lie in research. That's why we're actively involved in research programs aimed at finding a cure, controlling seizures, and even preventing epilepsy altogether. Here's how we're making a difference:

1. Finding a Cure: This is the ultimate goal, and while there's no single answer yet, we're supporting research on various promising avenues, like:

Genetic studies: Understanding the role of genes in epilepsy might lead to personalized treatments or even gene therapy.Brain imaging: Advanced scans help us understand the brain activity during seizures, potentially unlocking new treatment targets.Drug development: We support studies testing new medications that could be more effective with fewer side effects.

2. Controlling Seizures: Even without a cure, better seizure control can drastically improve lives. We're involved in research on:

Non-invasive therapies: Exploring options like electrical stimulation or magnetic fields that could control seizures without medication.Personalized medicine: Tailoring treatment based on individual factors like seizure type and brain activity for better outcomes.Improving existing medications: Investigating ways to make current medications more effective or reduce side effects.

3. Preventing Epilepsy: While some cases are unavoidable, understanding risk factors and early intervention could prevent some epilepsies. We're supporting research on:

Identifying risk factors: Studying factors like prenatal infections or head injuries to understand why some people develop epilepsy.Early intervention: Exploring ways to prevent seizures or lessen their severity in high-risk individuals.Public health interventions: Supporting initiatives like improving vaccination rates and reducing head injuries to lower overall epilepsy risk.

Recent Numbers and Evidence:

While we don't have recent research directly funded by TEO, we actively collaborate with national and international research institutions. For example, a 2023 study published in "Nature Genetics" identified a new gene linked to epilepsy, showcasing the progress being made.Additionally, a 2022 study in "Lancet Neurology" reported promising results from a non-invasive brain stimulation therapy for seizure control.These are just a few examples, and every step forward brings us closer to a brighter future for people with epilepsy.