New York State Department of Health Announces Illumination of Empire State Plaza In Honor of Epilepsy Awareness

215,000 New Yorkers are Living with Epilepsy, with Nearly 9,000 Individuals Newly Diagnosed Every Year

ALBANY, N.Y. (November 15, 2024) – The New York State Department of Health is raising awareness about epilepsy by illuminating the Empire State Plaza in purple on November 16.

"Epilepsy is often misunderstood and stigmatized and those who suffer from seizures caused by the disorder can feel extremely isolated," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "The Department will continue to raise awareness and increase access to quality programs and services across the State."

Epilepsy is a disorder of the central nervous system resulting in seizures that may have no apparent cause and that happen more than once. More than half the time, the cause of epilepsy is unknown. When determined, it is most often due to head injury, infections or a tumor in the brain, a stroke, degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, substance abuse, or hereditary factors. About 50 percent of children outgrow their epilepsy by the time they become adults.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 215,000 people in New York are living with active epilepsy, a disorder of the central nervous system that results in seizures. Other studies suggest that about 9,000 individuals are diagnosed yearly in the State.

Epilepsy affects children and adults, men and women, and people of all races, religions, ethnic backgrounds and social classes. Having the disorder can alter a person's life, as it's impossible to know when seizures may occur, leading to problems at school and work, and it can impact the ability to get a driver's license. People with epilepsy may also face discrimination from others who may not understand what is happening during a seizure.

More information about the disorder, including diagnosis and treatment options, can be found here.