34. Eradicating Epilepsy Stigma, Part 1: The Origin Story
In our latest podcast episode, we invite you to immerse yourself in the reality of epilepsy stigma in a remote village in Cameroon, through the inspiring journey of our guest, Teguo Daniel Djoyum. A neurotechnologist and social entrepreneur, Teguo is making waves by making neurodiagnostic services and education more accessible, combating the harsh realities of epilepsy stigma, and demonstrating the transformative power of access to healthcare.
Teguo's journey began with his brother's epilepsy diagnosis, sparking a fierce passion within him for neurodiagnostics. His experience highlights the significant role neurodiagnostic technology can play in revolutionizing healthcare, particularly in countries like Cameroon where access to such services is often limited. Teguo's dedication to this cause has led him to establish the Global Organization of Health Education, a non-profit making significant strides in global health education and accessibility.
In this episode, we focus on the fictional story of a young girl named Aminata to understand the ripple effects of epilepsy stigma in her village. The stigma not only affects her mental health but also impacts family dynamics and the community's overall economic system. Epilepsy stigma can reduce a person's productivity, limit educational opportunities, and lead to social exclusion, having far-reaching implications on the individual and the community at large.
Teguo shares his experiences growing up in Cameroon, witnessing his brother living with epilepsy, and how societal perceptions shaped his outlook. These experiences, although challenging, became a catalyst for his pursuit of a career in neurophysiology and the foundation of his non-profit organization.
Neurodiagnostic technology has the potential to transform healthcare in low and middle-income countries. According to the Journal of Neuroepidemiology, epilepsy affects over 50 million people worldwide, with 80% living in these countries. By making neurodiagnostic services more accessible, we can combat the stigma associated with epilepsy, improve the quality of life for individuals living with the condition, and ultimately strengthen the economic systems of these communities.
As Teguo's work continues to make an impact in countries like Cameroon, Ethiopia, and Nigeria, we are reminded of the power of education and technology in transforming healthcare. His journey serves as a testament to the potential of neurodiagnostics in breaking barriers, eradicating stigma, and paving the way for more accessible healthcare.
The episode concludes with a call to action for more research and attention to noncommunicable diseases like epilepsy. It emphasizes the need for updated data and more inclusive terminologies to reduce stigma. The fight against epilepsy stigma is far from over, but with the efforts of individuals like Teguo and the power of neurodiagnostic technology, we are one step closer to a more inclusive and understanding society.
