ACP/EU

ACP/EU in Addis Ababa, February 2004

Reply given by Commissioner Nielson to Question by John Bowis.

Epilepsy.

The European Commission is aware of and concerned about chronic non-communicable diseases, such as epilepsy, in developing countries.

While our focus remains the support to the fight against the main communicable diseases linked to poverty, HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis, we acknowledge that many other health problems such as epilepsy, require further support to ensure access to affordable and effective prevention, treatment and care services.

Our support to these health challenges is channelled through the European Community's strategies to strengthen health services in developing countries where health is a focal sector or through general budget support linked to improved social sector outcomes. The capacity of health systems to deliver basic preventive and curative services is crucial to integrate and provide appropriate education, prevention, diagnostic and therapeutic services in epilepsy and other important diseases.

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