[The epilepsy treatment gap in six primary care centres in Togo (2007-2009)].

Epilepsy, the most common serious neurological condition, is one of the most widespread non-transmissible diseases in the world. In developing countries, about 90% of those with epilepsy do not receive appropriate treatment; this treatment gap, very high compared with other chronic diseases, helps to explain the marginalisation and poor living conditions of these people. Reducing this treatment gap and the burden that epilepsy represents is a difficult task and the obstacles are numerous.

[Evolution of the epilepsy treatment gap in 6 peripheral care units in Togo].

Aim: To reduce, less than, 50 % the therapeutic gap of the epilepsy in six peripheral care units (PCU).

Methods: A prospective study was carried out from May 2006, to July 2007 in 1 PCU selected in each of the 6 sanitary regions of Togo. The strategy we used went through the staff training, sensitization of communities and availability of antiepileptic drugs.