International League Against Epilepsy

Chapter Reports

Albanian League Against Epilepsy

Jera Kruja, President
UHC Mother Theresa
Service of Neurology
Dibra St. 372
Tirana
ALBANIA
Phone: +355 68 21 80097
Fax: +355 43 62 641
Email:

Ali Kuqo, Secretary General
UHC Mother Theresa
Service of Neurology
Dibra St. 372
Tirana
ALBANIA
Phone: +355 69 21 32 783
Fax: +355 43 62 641

Mira Kapisyzi, Treasurer
UHC Mother Theresa
Service of Neurology
Dibra St. 372
Tirana
ALBANIA
Phone: +355 43 62 641
Fax: +355 43 62 641
Email:

End of term _ December 2003

History

The Albanian Chapter was founded in November 1999. We are very grateful to Peter Wolf, the General Secretary of ILAE at that time, who helped us prepare the formal documents.

The number of active members is 18, from different medical fields: neurology, pharmacology, biochemistry, neuroradiology, pathology, neurosurgery, and neuropsychology.

The official address is that of University Service of Neurology, UHC "Mother Theresa," Tirana, Albania, which is the only academic and scientific center
for neurology in the country.

ALAE has been a provisional member of ILAE since January 2000 and a permanent member of ILAE since May 2001 (Buenos Aires Congress).

During these four years we have organised six organisative meetings, two local workshops, two national workshops and two international workshops, with the participation of all neurologists and some other specialists from all over the country.

The most important meetings have been the October 2001 workshop with the exceptional participation of Giuliano Avanzini, and the June 2002 workshop with the very appreciated participation of Emilio Perucca.

Publications

Epilepsy, Kruja J., Eurorilindja, Tirana 2001
Epilepsy, a guideline for patients, Tirana 2001

Meetings

October 2001 _ Epilepsy, mechanisms and genetics (Invited speakers: G. Avanzini, F. Zara)
February 2002 _ Traumatic epilepsy (Invited speaker: De Santis)
June 2002 _ Conference on epilepsy treatment (Invited speaker E. Peruca)
December 2002 _ Surgery of epilepsy (Invited speaker F. Crotti)
March 2003 _ EEG course

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Participation in International Congresses and Conferences (Buenos Aires, Lisbon, Athens)
Membership in European Academy of Epilepsy
Participation in Venice course, July-August 2002: Training the trainers
Participation in the Venice course of EUREPA, February 2003
Short stages of junior neurologists and exchanging experience visits of seniors in Carlo Besta Institute, Milan, Italy
Using the computerized programme on epilepsy, kindly furnished by Carlo Besta Institute
Set-up of the Epilepsy Unit in the University Service of Neurology

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

During 2001 and 2002 we contacted the local office of WHO in Tirana and the head office of the Global Campaign, presenting a broad project on epidemiology of epilepsy in Albania
Unfortunately we received no answer from the local office and even the efforts of De Boer, who kindly supported our project, didn't achieve any result
We will appreciate if the Global Campaign will have an interest in our country

Future plans

The organisation of a National Registry of Epilepsy
The epidemiology of epilepsy as a part of a collaborative project with Mariani Foundation and Mario Negri Institute _ Milan, Italy
The organisation of courses on epilepsy diagnosis and treatment with participation of neurologists, pediatric and family doctors

Summary Statement

ALAE is one of the youngest chapters of ILAE. We think that in the future we can do more working with enthusiasm and facing the difficulties of the actual situation of the health system in our country.

Algerian League Against Epilepsy

Mahmoud Ait-Kaci-Ahmed, President
Hopital All Ait-Idir
Service de Neurologie
Boulevard A. Hahad
16000 Alger
ALGERIA
Phone: +213 21 96 33 28
Fax: +213 21 96 38 25
Email:

Amar Lebiod, Secretary General
Hôpital Parnet
Chief Pediatrics Department
Hussein Dey
16000 Alger
ALGERIA
Phone: +213 21 49 56 21

Saadi Ibrahim, Treasurer
2 Rue Said Guendouz, Immeuble Casora
16000 Alger
ALGERIA
Phone: +213 21 67 76 45

Argentinean League Against Epilepsy

Hector Alberto Waisburg, President
Larrea 1474 PB Dpto 3
1117 Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Phone: +54 11 48 06 41 87
Fax: +54 11 48 55 59 04
Email:

Monica Beatriz Perassolo, Secretary General
Cuba 1960, 7a
1428 Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Phone: +54 11 44 24 90 85
Fax: +54 11 49 54 71 25
Email:

Néstor Estevez, Treasurer

Publications

We are trying to prepare a book on epilepsy, which has been discussed with professionals working in epilepsy during an important Argentine meeting
We have organised an Internet site, where we can interact with professionals. We will also try to answer people's questions

Meetings

We have a monthly meeting where we discussed various subjects and patients with epilepsy
National meeting between Argentine League Against Epilepsy and the Argentine Neurology Society (2002)

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

We had meetings in each district of the country to discuss people with epilepsy
We met with generalist physicians, neurologists, etc. answering questions and planning who can do the best epilepsy diagnosis
We discussed epilepsy problems with Latin-American professionals

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

We have been working with lawyers concerning the rights of people with epilepsy

Future plans

We will try to actualize the Argentine League's syllabus (Diagnosis, treatment)

Armenian National League Against Epilepsy

Vahagn Darbinyan, President
Aigedzori 74 St., Apt. 11
375019 Yerevan
ARMENIA
Phone: +374 14 74 931
Fax: +374 13 91 316
Email: /

Andronik I. Kalaijian, Vice President
ARMENIA
Phone: +374 12 84 070
Email:

Gayane R. Melikyan, Secretary General
Zeytun, Surenyants Str., h 2, Apt. 45
375014 Yerevan
ARMENIA
Phone: +374 14 74 492
Email:

Tatyana Stepanyan, Treasurer
19 Arabkir Str./14, Apt. 9
375051 Yerevan
ARMENIA
Phone: +374 12 57 091

End of the term for the present Executive Committee _ May 2007

Publications

Darbinyan V, Melikyan G, et al.: Epilepsy and seizure disorders. FAQ. Parma Print, 2003
Darbinyan V, Melikyan G, Soukhoudyan B, Yeghiazaryan N: Guideline for persons with epilepsy. Parma Print, 2003
Melikyan G, Darbinyan V. Temporal lobe epilepsy: EEG and MRI correlation. Materials of the First Armenian International Medical Conference. 2003, 51-54
Soukhoudyan B, Darbinyan V. Ketogenic diet as an alternative method for refractive epilepsy. J Erebouni 2003; 3 [In press.]
Kachatryan S, Darbinyan V. Quality of life in patients with epilepsy: psychological, emotional and social aspects. Materials of Jubilee Conference of medical students devoted to the 55th Anniversary of foundation of students' Scientific Society of Yerevan Medical University. 2003, 84-86

Meetings

Advances in Clinical Epileptology. Regular (monthly) meetings of the First Armenian League Against Epilepsy
Theoretical and practical issues in contemporary interdisciplinary clinical neurology (weekly seminars)

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Basic & Clinical Epileptology, Annual Postgraduate Review Course 2003, Yerevan, Armenia
Social integration of patients with epilepsy in communities of Spitak, Arevashogh, Parni, Jrashen, Research Grant 2003
Advances in Clinical Epileptology: Classification, Differential Diagnosis and Treatment. EUREPA Teaching Course, November 2002, Yerevan, Armenia

Future plans

to organise the EUREPA Teaching Course (October 2004, Yerevan, Armenia)
to organise the First Armenian Conference on Epileptology (May 2004, Yerevan, Armenia)
to found the Pediatric Comprehensive Epilepsy Centre (September 2003, Yerevan, Armenia)
to construct the Internet Website for recent information and epileptological education in English (currently in Armenian and Russian) (2004)
to initiate research on epilepsy epidemiology in Armenia
to organise the Annual Postgraduate Review Course

Epilepsy Society of Australia

Sam F. Berkovic, President
Epilepsy Research Institute, Level 1
Neurosciences Bldg., Repatriation Campus -
Austin & Repatriation Medical Centre
Banksia Street
3081 West Heidelberg
AUSTRALIA
Phone: +61 39 49 62 330
Fax: +61 39 49 62 291
Email:

Mark Cook, Vice President
St. Vincents Hospital
Dept. of Neurology
Victoria St.
3002 Melbourne
AUSTRALIA
Phone: +61 39 41 91 855
Fax: +61 39 41 95 411
Email:

David Reutens, Secretary
Epilepsy Research Institute
Neurosciences Inst., A&RMC
Banksia Street
3081 Heidelberg West
AUSTRALIA
Phone: +61 39 49 62 357
Fax: +61 39 49 62 291
Email:

Graeme Jackson, Treasurer
Brain Research Institute
Neurosciences Inst., A&RMC
Banksia Street
3081 Heidelberg West
AUSTRALIA
Phone: +61 39 49 64 076
Fax: +61 39 49 62 980
Email:

Angela O'Connor, Permanent Secretariat

End of term for current Executive 31 December 2003

Publications

Membership Newsletters (quarterly)
Website: www.epilepsy-society.org.au

Meetings

Annual Scientific Meeting: Brisbane, Qld, Australia, November 2002
Annual Scientific Meeting: Auckland, New Zealand, November 2003

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Improvements in National Driving Regulations
Pharmaceutical issues
Annual Scientific Meetings
Involvement with local and national community support groups
Federal lobbying
Membership drives
Travel Scholarships

Future plans

International Committee for enhancement of relations with neighbouring countries

New Executive

Summary Statement

Our membership continues to grow. There is increasing interest and activity in the clinical and research activities relating to epilepsy.

Austrian League Against Epilepsy

Bruno Mamoli, President
2. Neurologische Abteilung
Nathaniel Freiherr von Rothschild´sche Stiftung für Nervenkranke - Neurologisches Zentrum der Stadt Wien _ Rosenhügel
Riedelgasse 5
A-1130 Vienna
Austria
Phone: +43-1-88000-251
Fax: +43-1-88000-384
Email: /

Christoph Baumgartner, Secretary
Department of Clinical Epilepsy Research
Neurological University Clinic
Wahringer Gurtel 18-20
A-1090 Vienna
Austria
Phone: +43-1-40400-3433
Fax: +43-1-40400-3141
Email:

End of term: November 2004

Publications

Mitteilungen der Österreichischen Sektion der Internationalen Liga gegen Epilepsie (published quarterly, since 2001). Distributed to all members of the chapter as well as to all neurological departments and all neurology residents
Folder Epilepsie: Information for patients, relatives and the general population

Meetings

Jahrestagung der Österreichischen Sektion der Internationalen Liga gegen Epilepsie, Klagenfurt, 8-9 November 2002 (Annual Meeting of the Austrian Chapter)
Gemeinsame Jahrestagung der Deutschen Sektion, Österreichischen Sektion und Schweizerischen Sektion der Internationalen Liga gegen Epilepsie, Berlin, 3-6 April 2003 (Joint Meeting of the German, Austrian and Swiss Chapter)
Herbsttagung der Österreichischen Sektion der Internationalen Liga gegen Epilepsie, Wien, 7 November 2003 (Fall Meeting of the Austrian Chapter)

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Working Groups were established to promote common clinical, educational and research activities. Consensus statements and position papers on the following topics were published by these Working Groups in the
Mitteilungsblatt of the Austrian Section: Social issues (1/2001), status epilepticus (2/2002), epilepsy in the elderly (3/2002), presurgical epilepsy evaluation and epilepsy surgery (4/2002), MR imaging in epilepsy (1/2003), further topics planned for publication in 2003 include: prophylaxis, expert reports in epilepsy
Other working groups on the following topics are actively working in the following fields: genetics; women and men in epilepsy; neurophysiology; febrile seizures; neonatal seizures; neuropsychology
A certificate for epileptologists and a certificate for accredited outpatient seizure clinics were established in 2003
A Secretariat with a part-time secretary was established where physicians and patients can call in for information (Contact: Christine Adler, Phone: +43-1-40400-3728; Fax: +43-1-40400-3137; email; / )
A Website is maintained providing information for physicians and patients: http://www.medicalnet.at/oe.sektion-ILAE/
The Austrian Chapter participated in a study on public opinion about epilepsy (conducted with the German and Swiss Chapter)
Regular teaching courses for emergency physicians on the management of seizures and status epilepticus are held
Organisation of the 6th European Epilepsy Congress to be held in Vienna, 30 May - 3 June 2004

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

Participation in a study on public opinion about epilepsy (conducted with the German and Swiss Chapter)
Folder Epilepsie: Information for patients, relatives and the general population

Future plans

Herbsttagung der Österreichischen Sektion der Internationalen Liga gegen Epilepsie, Wien, 7 November 2003 (Fall Meeting of the Austrian Chapter)
Finishing the position papers on the issues mentioned above
Organisation of the 6th European Epilepsy Congress to be held in Vienna, 30 May to 3 June 2004

Summary Statement

The Austrian Chapter has been quite productive during the last two years, a regular publication is issued quarterly, certificates for epileptologists and outpatient seizure clinics were established, and working groups were established on all relevant issues in epileptology. The organisation of the 6th European Epilepsy Congress to be held in Vienna, 30 May to 3 June 2004 is one of the highlights for the Austrian Chapter for the coming year.

Azerbaijan League Against Epilepsy

Sharif I. Magalov, President
99, Shakhbazi Street, Flat 22
Baku
AZERBAIJAN
Phone: +994 12 95 54 67
Email:

Zakir M. Aliyev, Vice President
83, Mir-Jalal Street, Flat 67 Street, 16/8
370065 Baku
AZERBAIJAN
Phone: +994 12 68 26 17
Fax: +994 12 94 85 08

Vafa Magalova, Secretary General
99, Shakhbazi Street, Flat 22
370065 Baku
AZERBAIJAN
Phone: +994 12 39 16 07
Email:

Nailya N. Abasova, Treasurer
3, Ahmedbekov
370065 Baku
AZERBAIJAN

Belgian League Against Epilepsy

Thierry de Barsy, President
Centre Neurologique W. Lennox
Allée de Clerlande 6
1340 Ottignies
BELGIUM
Phone: +32 10 43 02 23
Fax: +32 10 43 02 23
Email:

Eric Schmedding, Secretary General
AZ VUB
Dienst Neurologie
Laarbeeklaan 103
1090 Brussels
BELGIUM
Phone: +32 24 77 64 01
Fax: +32 24 77 68 00
Email:

Axel Ceulemans, Treasurer
9 Cohy
4771 Saive
BELGIUM
Phone: +32 43 62 91 51
Fax: +32 43 62 91 51

BRASIL

Email:

Maria Luisa Giraldes de Manreza, Secretariat
Rua Teodoro Sampaio 741 Apt 94
05405-050 Saõ Paolo
BRASIL
Phone: +55 11 42 15 8 08
Fax: +55 11 85 20 063
Email:

Regina M.F. Fernandes, Treasurer
Ribeirao Preto School of Medicine
Department of Neurology
University of Saõ Paulo
Saõ Paulo
BRASIL
Email:

Carlos Eduardo Silvado, Past President
Avenida Munoz Da Rocha, 98 #211
80035-000 Curitiba
BRASIL PR
Phone: +55 41 35 28 690
Fax: +55 41 26 21 634
Email:

Bulgarian League against Epilepsy

Dimitar Chavdarov, President
Medical University –Sofia
Alexandrov University Hospital
Department Clinical Neurophysiology
1, G. Sofiiski st. , 1431 Sofia
BULGARIA
Phone: + 359 888 236 337
E-mail: ;

Stojan Bojinov, 1st Vice-President
Medical Uviversity – Pleven
8, G. Kochev st., 5800 Pleven
BULGARIA
Phone : + 359 648 27 226

Dimitar Minchev, 2nd Vice-President
Medical University –Varna
Neurology Hospital, 9000 Varna
BULGARIA
Phone: +359 52302895

Melania Radionova, Secretary-General
Medical University –Sofia
Alexandrov University Hospital
Department Clinical Neurophysiology
1, G. Sofiiski st. , 1431 Sofia
BULGARIA
Phone: + 359 888 232 440
E-mail:;

Veneta Bojinova, Treasurer
Medical University – Sofia
Sv Naum University Hospital
1, L. Rusev st., 1113 Sofia
BULGARIA
Phone: + 3592 989 59 16

The Bulgarian League Against Epilepsy was founded in 1991 and counts 89 members now.
In the League were established four permanent commissions on the following topics: 1. Diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy; 2. Epilepsy out of the shadows, 3. Epilepsy and legislation and 4. Epilepsy and network.
The League systematically works for the introduction of the new diagnostic methods and therapeutic possibilities. The economical problems in the country are the main obstacle for the routine usage of MRI and the wide treatment with the new antiepileptic drugs. The Bulgarian League worked out a Consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy in 2002, which was accepted by the National Insurance Fund. With some restrictions the antiepileptic drugs are reimbursed for the patients with epilepsy.
The cooperation with mass media is of great importance for the program "Epilepsy Out of the Shadows"
The association carries out 4-5 meetings annually. Teaching courses usually are organized together with pharmaceutical firms. The Bulgarian League organizes an annual meeting on the seaside in Magnolia Hotel, and that is why in Bulgaria “ Magnolia” symbolizes the Campaign against Epilepsy. These meetings are gratuitously supported by Ecopharm . In 2004 was held the 10th anniversary session .
The last year the Bulgarian branch of ILAE organized a National Conference on Epilepsy with International Participation, 7-10 October 2004. More than 350 Bulgarian physicians participated in the conference. There were 26 oral and 12 poster presentations, addressing various aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. There were five satellite symposiums, organized by Glaxo Smith Kline, Janssen-Cilag , Novartis , Pfizer and Sanopfi-Aventis. Besides the Bulgarian specialists precise expositions in the field of diagnosis were presented by A. Covanis and P. Jovic. The participants were impressed by the presentations of M. Brodie, G. Bouer and P. Genton on the current aspects in the treatment of epilepsy. On the last days of the Conference was held the general meeting of the members of the Bulgarian league against epilepsy and the new executive committee was elected. On the meeting were reported the activities of the past and the prospects for the new 4 year period were made.

Burkina Faso League Against Epilepsy

Kapoune Karfo, President
01 BP 2317
Ouagadougou 01 - Province Du Kadiogo
BURKINA FASO
Email:

Canadian League Against Epilepsy

Sam Wiebe, President
London Health Sciences Centre
University Campus
P.O. Box 5339 Stn A
339 Windermere Rd
London
Ontario N6A 5A5
Canada
Phone: +1 51 96 63 39 84
Fax: +1 51 96 63 37 53

Elaine Wirrell, Secretary General
Alberta Childrens Hospital
Department of Pediatrics
1820 Richmond Rd SW
AB T2T 5C7 Calgary
CANADA
Phone: +1 40 32 29 76 83
Fax: +1 40 32 29 76 49
Email:

Elaine Wirrell, Treasurer
Alberta Childrens Hospital
Department of Pediatrics
1820 Richmond Rd SW
AB T2T 5C7 Calgary
CANADA
Phone: +1 40 32 29 76 83
Fax: +1 40 32 29 76 49
Email:

Elout Starreveld, Past President
610-11010 101 Street Edmonton
T5H 4B9 Alberta
CANADA
Phone: +1 78 04 28 95 40
Fax: +1 78 04 28 95 39
Email:

Chilean League Against Epilepsy

Cayetano Napolitano, President
San Sebastian 2812 Dpto. 904
Santiago
CHILE
Phone: +56 22 46 16 11
Fax: +56 22 46 16 11
Email:

Cynthia Margarit, Secretary
Garcia de Torres 1365
Santiago
CHILE
Phone: +56 22 45 26 32
Fax: +56 22 45 26 32
Email:

Maria Teresa Luengo, Treasurer
11 Septiembre 1945 Of. 705
Santiago
CHILE
Phone: +56 22 44 35 19
Fax: +56 22 09 25 38
Email:

End of the term for the present Executive Committee: December 2004

History

The Chilean Epilepsy Society has its origin in professionals of the Group of Epilepsy and of the Chilean League against Epilepsy.

The Group of Epilepsy was founded 6 December. Their first directory was formed by Marcelo Devilat and Jaime Godoy, both elected for the Assembly of 7 professionals. Their objective was exchange of experiences in scientific thinking, investigation and teaching. The group grew. The statutes were elaborated in 1992 and the group received the patronage of the Chilean Scientific Societies. The scientific and educational activity of the group organised 7 symposia in the annual congresses of the societies' sponsors.

In 1998 the First Latin American Congress of Epilepsy was organised. The group published its bulletin for 6 years, attributed up to 1998 to the Chilean Magazine of Neuropsychiatry. The Chilean Group of Epilepsy had as presidents Alejandro of Marinis, Perla David, Claudia Ferrando, and Manuel Campos, who increased membership to 21 and raised the level of respect for the Chilean epileptology.

In April 1998 the president of the International League against Epilepsy (ILAE), Dr. Jerome Engel, proposed to the presidents the Chilean League against Epilepsy and of the Chilean Group of Epilepsy that Chile had the international organisational pattern to be a dependent entity of the ILAE. Both entities accepted the offer.

The following month a mixed commission prepared the statutes of what would be called the Chilean Society of Epileptology. After 11 months of work, in February 1999, the Commission approved the statutes for the Chilean Society of Epilepsy that would be the Chilean chapter of the ILAE and whose objectives would be scientific investigation, and educational and social support to people with epilepsy.

In March 1999 the constituent Assembly of the Society approved the statutes. On 16 September 1999 during the General Assembly of members of the UAE in Prague, the Chilean Chapter was recognized

Publications

Chilean Journal of Epilepsy, Editor in Chief: Perla David
The Chilean Magazine of Epilepsy has the objectives of educational assistance and development of investigation. We will investigate the characteristics of epilepsy in Chile, through the participation of our partners and all the scientific societies related to this illness. Our goal is to unite our towns, to know and share more of our experiences of this illness, especially the development state and the idiosyncrasy of each one of our countries, and thus unite in the fight to take epilepsy out of the shadows. This publication would not have been possible without Perla David, Editor in Chief. We wish to continue communication among our society and other societies, Chileans and Latin Americans. The topics are online on the Website www.epilepsiadechile.com. The online journal includes
N#1, 2000
N#1, suppl, 2000 I Latin American Congress
N# 2001
N#2003
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures
Quality of life
S.N.A. and Epilepsy
SUDEP
Photosensibility
Proposed Epilepsy Classification
Jeavons Syndrome
Ethics aspects
Depression in epilepsy
Behavioral problems in children with epilepsy
Syncope
Status epilepticus
Pharmacotherapeutic
Topiramate

Meetings

II Meetings June 2002, Juan Salina, Quality of Life
III Meetings June 2003, Perla David, Adverse Effects of AED

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

National Program of Epilepsy for Chile
Program of Continuous Education in Epilepsy in Chilean Society since July 2003
One Annual Meeting of Epilepsy in Chilean Chapter of ILAE
One Annual Journal of Epilepsy in Chile (one supplement, Dec. 2000)

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

Latin American Epilepsy day September 9, since 2000
Patient education in the pediatric hospitals
Brief communications and bibliography reviews in professional group second Saturday of every month in the Chilean Chapter of ILAE (Chilean Epilepsy Society) since 2000
National Program of Epilepsy for Chile
Program of continuous education in epilepsy in Chilean Society since July 2003
One Annual Meeting of Epilepsy in Chilean Chapter of ILAE
One Annual Journal of Epilepsy in Chile (one supplement, Dec. 2000)

Future plans

Cooperative multidisciplinary clinical trials on Serious Dermatologic Adverse Effects of AED
Epidemiology Aspect of Cost of Epilepsy in Chile, Cooperative Multidisciplinary Pharmacologic Vigilance
Epilepsy Symposium in the IV Congress of Neurophysiology Clinic of Latin American and V Chilean Meeting 7-10 October 2004 with the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology in Chile

Colombian League Against Epilepsy

Jaime Fandino Franky, President
Apartado Aereo 604
Cartagena
COLOMBIA
Phone: +57 56 61 81 27
Fax: +57 56 61 81 11
Email:

Judith de Manjarres, Secretariat
Fax: +57 56 61 81 11
Email:

The Colombian League Against Epilepsy has been very active in the last year. The key task is the organisation of the XXI Colombian Epilepsy Congress in April next year. Next September 7 we will commemorate Latin American Epilepsy day with the participation of civil and military authorities as well as the whole community. We have a attractive program for teachers, doctors, rehabilitation personnel and the general population. Our epilepsy surgery program is also very active with almost 600 cases operated on, and the neuropsychological rehabilitation program devoted to our patients is an example of our daily effort.

The Colombian League Against Epilepsy has 15 chapters around the country.

Congo League Against Epilepsy

Samuel Mampunza, President
Université de Kinshasa
Faculté de Médicine CNPP
BP 825
Kinshasa XI
CONGO
Phone: +243 88 02 513
Email:

Croatian League Against Epilepsy

Vera Durrigl, President
Jurjevska 25
10000 Zagreb
CROATIA
Phone: +385 14 66 82 02
Fax: +385 14 66 82 02
Email:

Ela Kirincic, Vice President
University of Rijeka
Pediatric Clinic
51000 Rijeka
CROATIA
Phone: +385 51 62 16 46
Fax: +385 51 62 31 26
Email:

Branka Marusic della Marina, Secretary
University of Zagreb
Childrens Hospital
10000 Zagreb
CROATIA
Phone: +385 14 60 01 36
Fax: +385 14 60 01 60
Email:

Zdravka Poljakovic, Treasurer
Zagreb University Medical School
Kispaticeva 12
10000 Zagreb
CROATIA
Phone: +385 12 38 83 42
Fax: +385 12 38 83 42

End of term _ Beginning 2004

Publications

Booklet "Living with Epilepsy" _ part 1
"Living with Epilepsy — Women and epilepsy" _ part 2
Videotape "Living with Epilepsy" (intended for patient use)

Meetings

5th Croatian Symposium on Epilepsy (with international participation), Osijek, 13-15 June 2002
Annual meetings (November 2001, 2002 etc.)
"New trends in treatment of epilepsy"

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

5th Symposium 2002
Annual meetings "New trends in treatment of epilepsy"
Several meetings in different Croatian cities (clinics, hospitals etc.)

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

The League organises permanent presentations and educational courses about epilepsy to improve care for patients with epilepsy, regarding their accommodation in kindergartens, help to be accepted in school, getting employment etc.

Future plans

At the moment two members of our Chapter are participants in the International course "From basic knowledge to rational prescribing in epilepsy," 10 to 19 July 2003, San Servolo, Venice, Italy
Delegate to the subcommission of Central/Eastern Europe workshop: "Promoting the role of Central/Eastern Europe clinical developments of new AED," 17 July, San Servolo
Two candidates of our Chapter are nominated to the 5th EUREPA trainer course by Pruhonice/Prague, Czech Republic, 19-23 November 2003

Cuban League Against Epilepsy

Salvador Gonzalez Pal, Secretary General
Avenida Independencia 26520
12200 Ciudad Habana
CUBA
Phone: +53 74 51 688
Fax: +53 74 51 512
Email:

Luisa Paz Sendin, Secretary
Calzada de Buenos Aires 104
12200 Ciudad Habana
CUBA
Phone: +53 87 05 719
Email:

Luisa Paz Sendin, Treasurer
Calzada de Buenos Aires 104
12200 Ciudad Habana
CUBA
Phone: +53 87 05 719
Email:

Czech League Against Epilepsy

Ivan Rektor, President

Milan Brazdil, Secretary

Miroslav Kalina, Treasurer

Milan Brazdil, Secretariat
Department of Neurology
University Hospital U sv. Anny
Pekarska 53
Brno, 602 00
Phone: +420543182624
Fax: +420543182624
Email:

Officers elected on 12 April 2003 for four years.

Publications

Soubor minimálních diagnostických a terapeutických standardù u pacientù s epilepsií

I-VII. (Diagnostic and therapeutic standards for patients with epilepsy)

The first seizure, rational pharmacotherapy for epileptic seizures, management of refractory epilepsy
II- The stages of epilepsy and quality of life, rational therapy for epileptic syndromes, epilepsy surgery
III- Women and epilepsy
IV- Psychological assessment and epilepsy, non-epileptic seizures
V- Epilepsy and sleep, photostimulation, neuroimaging
VI- First-aid during epileptic seizure, status epilepticus
VII- Assessing fitness to drive in people with epilepsy

EPISTOP, Maxdorf/Mediforum 2002, ISBN 80-859-12-88-0

Meetings

April 2002: The Day of the Czech League against Epilepsy, Brno
September 2002: VI. Postgraduate Course on Epilepsy, Pruhonice
December 2002: Congress on Clinical Neurology, Prague
April 2003: The Day of the Czech League against Epilepsy, Brno
September 2003: VII. Postgraduate Course on Epilepsy, Pruhonice

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Participation in EURAP, member of EUREPA (1st trainer Vladimir Komarek). Participation in EpiStop working group, a voluntary association of people interested in improving the quality of life of children, adolescents and adults with epilepsy. Modifications and amendments of outdated legislation. Cooperation with Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs and Ministry of Health of Czech Republic.

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

Participation in the educational activities of EpiStop. Education of children in schools: What is epilepsy? (questionnaire, animated film, and drama)
Cooperation with the patient organisation "Association E"
Surveys, radio and TV shows, articles, exhibitions; HelpLine, www pages

Future plans

A new system of comprehensive care of patients with epilepsy, which will have four levels. Part of this system will be postgraduate education of neurologists, to manage care of patients with refractory epilepsy.
Continue in cooperation with EpiStop and "E spolecnost" ("Association E")
Continue to improve legislation.

Summary Statement

The Czech chapter now has 112 members. Comprehensive epilepsy centres have been established in Prague and Brno that offer all aspects of medical and surgical treatment of epilepsy. The annual postgraduate course on epilepsy and the Day of League are held annually. The Czech League cooperates with the task force group EpiStop and self-help patients' organisation "Association E."

Danish Epilepsy Society

Anne Sabers, President
Glostrup Amtssygehus
Epilepsy Clinic
Ndr. Ringvej
DK 2600 Glostrup
DENMARK
Phone: +45 43 23 30 29
Email:

Peter Uldall, Vice President
Rigshospitalet
Department of Child Neurology
Blegdamsvej 9
DK - 2100 Copenhagen
DENMARK
Phone: +45 35 45 35 45
Fax: +45 35 45 67 17
Email:

Jakob Christensen, Secretary
University of Aarhus
Department of Pharmacology
Bartholinbuildning
DK-8000 Aarhus
DENMARK
Phone: +45 89 42 17 23
Email:

Anne Haase Juhl, Treasurer
Viborg Sygehus
Department of Clinical Neurophysiology
Heibergs Alle
DK - 8800 Viborg Sygehus
DENMARK
Phone: +45 89 27 27 27
Fax: +45 89 27 34 69
Email:

Troels W. Kjaer, Board Member
Rigshospitalet
Department of Clinical Neurophysiology
Blegdamsvej 9
DK-2100 Copenhagen
DENMARK
Phone: +45 35 45 35 34
Email:

Christian Pilebaek Hansen, Board Member
Danish Epilepsy Hospital
Kolonivej 1
DK-4293 Dianalund
DENMARK
Phone: +45 58 26 42 00
Email:

Per Sidenius, Board Member
Aarhus Kommunehospital
Department of Neurology
Norrebrogade 44
DK-8000 Aarhus
DENMARK
Phone: +45 89 49 33 33
Email:

Meetings

2003: New methods in diagnosing epilepsy
May 2002: Sleep and Epilepsy
October 2002: Diagnosis and management
April 2003: Non-epileptic attacks
September 2003: Epilepsy and Headache

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Continued work with establishing of a national Epilepsy Database
Started working groups to make new national guidelines for diagnosing and management of epilepsy

Future plans

Establish the work with new guidelines
Organise and make plan for new scientific meetings

Dominican Republic League Against Epilepsy

Diogenes Santos Viloria, President
Calle Osvaldo Baez N 13
Gazcue Santo Domingo
REPUBLICA DOMINICANA
Phone: +1 80 96 87 20 90
Fax: +1 80 96 82 74 70
Email:

Milagros Gomez Almanzar, Secretary General
Centro Medico Escano
Calle Dr. Delgado 2
Santo Domingo
REPUBLICA DOMINICANA
Phone: +1 80 96 87 20 90
Fax: +1 80 96 82 74 70
Email:

Ecuadorian League Against Epilepsy

Arturo Carpio, President
PO Box 0101-719
Cuenca
ECUADOR
Phone: +593 78 30 127
Fax: +593 78 85 957
Email:

Eduardo Arizaga, Vice President
Consultorio Medico Pichincha
Veintimilla 1078 y Paez
Quito
ECUADOR
Phone: +593 22 52 88 29

Alberto Vazquez, Secretary General
Centro Regional de Epilepsias "Ciudad de
Cuenca"
Hospital Vicente Corral Moscoso
Av 12 de Abril s/n
Cuenca
ECUADOR
Phone: +59 37 81 56 20
Fax: +59 34 39 49 95
Email:

Noemi Lisanti, Treasurer
Consultorios Medicos Santa Ana
Av. 12 de abril y av. Paucarbamaba
Cuenca
ECUADOR
Phone: +593 78 83 216 / +593 78 80 217
Email:

Egyptian Society Against Epilepsy

Farouk Koura, President
Cairo University
Head of Neurology Department
13 Yossef El Gindy - Falaki Squ.
1111 Cairo
EGYPT
Phone: +202 39 3 115
Fax: +202 33 65 920

Tarek Tawfik, Vice President

Ahmed T. El-Ghonemy, Secretary General
32 Falaqi Street
1111 Cairo
EGYPT
Phone: +20 12 214 99 91
Fax: +202 335 68 94
Email:

Mahmoud Allam, Treasurer
102 Nile Street Kholafa
Dokki Giza
EGYPT
Phone: +202 33 54 622
Fax: +202 36 44 912

Meetings

Sharm El Sheikh Epilepsy Conference
Symposium, Update in Epilepsy meeting (every three months)

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Research work on some new treatments and their application for patients suffering from epilepsy, with the assistance of specialized pharmaceutical companies

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

Distribution of handouts on the following subjects:

Information on epilepsy for the general practitioner
Booklets on the definition of epilepsy
Booklets on epilepsy for patients' close family and relations

Future plans

Regular periodical committee meetings every three months
Regular meetings with personnel dealing with epilepsy such as family, physicians or nurses

Estonian League Against Epilepsy

Valentin Sander, President
Tallinn Children's Hospital
Tervise 28, 13419 Tallinn
Estonia
Phone: +372 6977 190
Fax: +372 6977 143
Email:

Sulev Haldre, Member of the Board
Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery
University of Tartu
Puusepa 2, 51014 Tartu
Estonia
Phone: +372 7 421 440
Email:

Eve Õiglane, Member of the Board
Department of Pediatrics
Tartu University Clinics
Lunini 6, 51014 Tartu
Estonia
Email:

Publications

Defended thesis for PhD degree by Marju Herodes: "Quality of Life of People with Epilepsy In Estonia"

Meetings

2002

meeting of Estonian LAE - epidemiology of epilepsy in Estonia, Lecture of Emilio Berucca: AEDs of newer generation

2003

meeting of Estonian LAE - current status of management of status epilepticus
Lecture course on epilepsy accredited by EUREPA at Baltic Congress of Neurology
Cooperation with Baltic Child Neurology Association to organise First Joint Conference of Scandinavian Neuropediatric Society and Baltic Child Neurology Association

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Created Website of Estonian LAE in cooperation with Estonian Epilepsy society
Adopted guidelines for management of epilepsy in Estonia
Strengthening of cooperation with chapters of Eastern and Central Europe, meeting in Venice
Negotiations with health insurance, ministry of social affairs and state agency of medicine to reimburse newer generation AEDs

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

Joint public meetings of Estonian Epilepsy Society and Estonian League Against Epilepsy

Future plans

Development of guidelines for management of status epilepticus

Finnish Epilepsy Society

Matti Sillanpää, President
Departments of Child Neurology and Public Health
20014 Turku University
Finland
Phone: +358-2-333 7368
Fax: +358-2-333 8439
Email:

Reetta Kälviäinen, Secretary General
Department of Neurology, Kuopio University Hospital
P.O. Box 1777, 70211 Kuopio
Finland
Phone: +358-17-173311
Fax: +358-17-173031
Email:

Jukka Peltola, Treasurer
Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital
P.O. Box 2000 33521 Tampere
Finland
Phone: +358-3-2472713
Fax: +358-3-2474351
Email:

Publications

Abstract book of the Kuopio Epilepsy Symposium 2002

Meetings

Finnish Epilepsy Society (ILAE Chapter) and Finnish Epilepsy Association (IBE chapter) arranged together Kuopio Epilepsy Symposium 2002 in Kuopio, 15-16 March 2002. The meeting was third in a series of epilepsy meetings that have been organised jointly by the A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences and the Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, University of Kuopio. The objective of the meetings is to present up-to-date knowledge of selected topics related to epilepsy so that both experimental and clinical data are presented. We brought together 250 people working on different fields of epileptology to facilitate the exchange of information and ideas, and to update understanding of basic mechanisms, diagnostics and treatment of epilepsy. President of ILAE, Giuliano Avanzini, was one of the 11 distinguished foreign lecturers who participated into the symposium.
Second educational meeting was held in Helsinki, 22 November 2002. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss topics related to "Epilepsy and reproduction." Lectures dealt with epilepsy and fertility, contraception, pregnancy and outcome of children born to mothers with epilepsy. The meeting served also as a launch for Finland's participation in EURAP (European registry of antiepileptic drugs and pregnancy). There were altogether 80 participants.
Third meeting was held in Tampere 14 March 2003 together with the 10th Anniversary of the Finnish Epilepsy Association. The meeting gave an overview of epilepsy and the immune system. The topics especially discussed were cytokines and seizures, autoantibodies and epilepsy, and the role of immunomodulatory treatment options. There were 100 participants.

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

The chapter has focused to increase professional awareness of epilepsy as a treatable disorder. All our educational meetings are part of the global campaign and in major meetings we also arrange press conferences to increase public awareness. Members of the chapter participate in the national effort to create guidelines for the treatment of epilepsy in Finland.
The chapter has also been an active participant in the discussion of reimbursement policies of new antiepileptic drugs in Finland. The goal is to increase the equal availability of the new drugs for epilepsy patients regardless of their economic situation.

Future plans

Finnish Epilepsy Society tries to enhance both the adequate clinical follow-up of women with epilepsy during their pregnancy and EURAP in the effort for prospective assessment of pregnancy outcome after prenatal exposure to antiepileptic drugs.
In autumn 2003 the educational meeting will focus on the use of EEG in the diagnostic work-up of epilepsies.

Summary Statement

The Finnish chapter now has 169 members (medical doctors or researchers in epileptology). Finland has been very active in epilepsy research and during 2002, Helsinki, our capital, was chosen to be the site for the 7th European Congress on Epileptology in 2006. We will work very hard to fulfill the expectations of a high-quality scientific meeting.

French Chapter of the ILAE (FLAE)

Simone Garrel, President
174 chemin de la Faurie
38410 Vaulnaveys le Haut
FRANCE
Phone: +04 76 59 24 49
Email:

Pierre Genton, Vice President
Centre Saint Paul 300, Bd Sainte Marguerite 13009 Marseille
FRANCE
Phone: +04 91 17 07 50
Fax: +04 91 75 96 69
Email:

Pierre Thomas, Secretary General
Service de Neurologie Consultation d'Epileptologie Hôpital Pasteur, Pavillon D 30, Voie Romaine, BP 69 06002 Nice Cedex 1
FRANCE
Phone: +04 93 81 93 77
Fax: +04 93 81 93 77
Email:

Dominique Broglin, Treasury
Centre Saint Paul/Hôpital H. Gastaut 300, Bd Sainte Marguerite
13009 Marseille
FRANCE
Phone: +04 91 17 07 50
Fax: +04 91 17 07 91
Email:

Michel Baulac, International Delegate
University of Paris VI
Hopital de la Pitie-Salpetriere
47 Bd de l'hôpital
75013 Paris
FRANCE
Phone: +33 1 42 16 18 11, mobile: 33 (0)6 07 68 59 85 Fax: +33 1 44 24 52 47
Email:

The term of the present Executive Committee will end in December 2003

Publications

The quarterly publication of the LFCE, the journal Epilepsies, is increasing its audience, both in France and among French-speaking countries. A new edition of the "Guide des Etablissements pour épileptiques" (Guide of Epilepsy Centres) was issued.

Meetings

The "Journees Françaises de l'Epilepsie" (French Epilepsy Days) constitute the yearly congress of the FLAE. The site for 2001 was Tours, followed by Montpellier in 2002, to be followed by Lille in 2003 and Aix-en-Provence in 2004. This meeting, which gathers around 600 participants, includes in particular:

a "Jean Bancaud" day, devoted to the presentation and discussion of clinical cases with EEG and video documentation;
a special course for and by nurses and EEG technicians

Summary of activities in 2002 and 2003

Website

The FLAE keeps and professionally updates its site at http://www.epilepsies-lfce.fr

Education and teaching activities

The FLAE continues to promote an interuniversity teaching course (Diplôme Inter-Universitaire d'Epileptologie). The next objectives are its harmonization with other European diplomas and its coordination with similar diplomas organised in France in neuropediatry and neurophysiology.

Grants and International Henri Gastaut Prize

In order to promote research in epileptology, the FLAE has developed, in partnership with pharmaceutical companies, a policy of grants. In 2001, 2002, and 2003, up to six recipients were awarded each year.

In 2001, the FLAE decided to create, in partnership with Sanofi-Synthelabo, an international prize for major achievements in epileptology, the International Henri Gastaut Prize, which is now a well established international event. The 2003 winner is Professor Yukio Fukuyama.

Summary of activities in relation to Global Campaign in 2002 and 2003

After the success of the first National Epilepsy Day (Journée Nationale de l'Epilepsie) on 18 November 2000, the second edition was organised on 15-16 November 2002 and reached the same level of interest and participation across the main cities of France. Besides the FLAE, several organisations (AISPACE, ARPEIJE), the French Bureau of Epilepsy and the French Foundation for Research in Epilepsy are involved.