Health experts in the Kigezi Sub-region have raised concern over a growing number of epilepsy cases among men compared to women.
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by sudden and abnormal electrical activity in the brain. According to the World Health Organization, around 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological diseases globally.
Dr. Johnson Bitungwa, the Principal Psychiatric Officer at Kabale Regional Referral Hospital, says that 601 men were diagnosed with epilepsy between January and December 2025, compared to 382 women in the same period.
Speaking on a Kabale-based radio station on Saturday morning, Dr. Bitungwa warned that epilepsy cases could continue to rise due to persistent abuse of alcohol, illicit drugs and other psychoactive substances in the region.
He further disclosed that 1,128 men and 167 women were found to be consuming alcohol, while 69 men and six women were using illicit drugs and other psychoactive substances. In addition, 100 men and 267 women were diagnosed with major depression during the same period.
Dr. Bitungwa identified alcohol abuse, drug and substance misuse, depression, epilepsy, and HIV/AIDS as some of the most prevalent health challenges affecting residents in the Kigezi Sub-region.
CUE IN DR BITUNGWA……ON EPILEPSY……RR//
Meanwhile, Nabisingura Ivan, Director of Metanoia Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre (METRC) in Kijuguta Ward, Northern Division of Kabale Municipality, called on residents to embrace counseling services and normalize conversations around mental health.
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In a related development, the Officer in Charge of Kabale Central Police Station, ASP Andrew Akanyijuka, expressed concern over what he described as declining parental guidance. He noted that inadequate parenting has led to an increase in the number of street children, a factor he said is contributing to drug abuse and worsening mental health in the area.
CUE IN AKANYIJUKA……ON THE MATTER……RR//
