Insights with host Hugh Downs creates new series on Epilepsy

    BOCA RATON, FL, August 05, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Insights is producing a new program surrounding epilepsy as part of the series surrounding the brain.

Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which clusters of nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain sometimes signal abnormally. The NIH comments, "Once epilepsy is diagnosed, it is important to begin treatment as soon as possible. For about 80 percent of those diagnosed with epilepsy, seizures can be controlled with modern medicines and surgical techniques. Some antiepiletic drugs can interfere with the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. In 1997, the FDA approved the vagus nerve stimulator for use in people with seizures that are not well-controlled by medication." Most people with epilepsy lead outwardly normal lives. While epilepsy cannot currently be cured, for some people it does eventually go away. How this disorder works and affects people will be the main focus of the new programming.

The Insights' Executive Producer stated, "Doctors use brain scans and other tests to diagnose epilepsy, and there is a host of new technologies emerging today that people need to be made aware of. People should understand that when they find out they have the disorder, it is important to start treatment right away." The senior producer for the series said, "There is no cure for epilepsy, but medicines can control seizures for most people. When medicines are not working well, surgery or implanted devices such as nerve stimulators may help. Special diets can help some children with epilepsy. We want people to be well educated in order to choose the best course of action of them, and the series will be highlighting some of those paths to give them some choices they may not have otherwise known about." These important points, and other stories on epilepsy will be highlighted in the Insights series.

About Insights Hugh Downs:

For more information visit www.insightshd.com or call (772) 647-0030. The Insights series is distributed to Public TV through a national distributor and highlights the best and most compelling educational stories. Each segment is hosted by America's most well-known anchor, Mr. Hugh Downs.

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