Latest News
IBE at the 36th International Epilepsy Congress
With the 36th International Epilepsy Congress (IEC) approaching in Lisbon at the end of August, excitement is building across the IBE community. Co-organised by the IBE and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), the Congress brings together the worlds of science, advocacy, and lived experience. [...]
IBE-Europe Chapter Convention
12th-13th September 2024 Download Report
Francesca Sofia Reappointed as IBE President for a Second Term
We are pleased to announce that Francesca Sofia has been reappointed as President of the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE), beginning her second term following recent constitutional reforms that allow for consecutive [...]
Shaping the Future of Epilepsy Advocacy in Asia and Oceania
In February 2025, New Delhi hosted the 15th Asian and Oceanian Epilepsy Congress (AOEC) which brought together leaders, advocates, and researchers from across the region. Alongside the main scientific programme, the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) hosted a powerful and thought-provoking Epilepsy and Society Symposium—a [...]
Established in 1961, the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) is an international organisation for national epilepsy organisations (IBE chapters) that exists to provide support for a strong global network, encourage the development of new chapters in underserved areas of the world, and to encourage communication and collaboration among all members so as to meet our mission and vision.
Our members are patient/family focused and driven organisations and we work collaboratively with our professional and government partners worldwide.
Our strategic priorities are to ensure that epilepsy is
recognised as a health priority worldwide; that the human and civil rights of people with epilepsy are enhanced and protected wherever they might live; that people with epilepsy are empowered to maximise quality of life; and that research into prevention, treatment, care and consequences of epilepsy are promoted.
We work to achieve these priorities through a range of programs including:
- Public Information and Health Education
- Advocacy
- International Best Practice Exchange
- Helping Build Communities of Care
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What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is one of the most common serious diseases affecting more than 50 million people globally. There are many difference causes for epilepsy including genetic disposition, head trauma or brain tumour.
Epilepsy affects almost every aspect in the life of the person diagnosed with the disease. For many people with epilepsy, the stigma attached to the disease is more difficult to deal with than the disease itself.
People with epilepsy have a 3-6 times greater risk of premature death. Many of the deaths from epilepsy could be prevented with appropriate medication and treatment.
