Some historic names for epilepsy have been derogatory and stigmatizing. An older term for “epilepsy” in Malay means “mad pig disease.” Neurologists in Malaysia collaborated to change the word to a medically accurate term. Sharp Waves spoke with Dr. Chong Tin Tan about the origins of the older term and how the new term was introduced.
Resources:
Name of epilepsy: Does it matter? - 2012 - Neurology Asia
Announcement of a new Chinese name for epilepsy - Lau - 2011 - Epilepsia
Renaming Korean epilepsy: Where are we? - Epilepsy & Behavior
Overcoming the stigma of epilepsy in Asia // International League Against Epilepsy
Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.
Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.
The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where no person's life is limited by epilepsy. Visit us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!