Major Epilepsy Organizations Raise Alarm Over Leadership Changes at NINDS
In a significant show of unity, 113 prominent epilepsy organizations have come together to express their grave concerns regarding the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) recent decision not to reappoint Dr. Walter Koroshetz as Director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). This coalition includes representatives from various sectors, such as individuals living with epilepsy, healthcare providers, researchers, and advocacy groups, all rallying to highlight the potential negative impacts of this leadership change on epilepsy research.
Dr. Koroshetz has been a stalwart figure within the neuroscience community, celebrated for his effective leadership at NINDS, where he has been instrumental in translating scientific discoveries into practical treatments and technologies that enhance the lives of those affected by neurological diseases. His departure raises concerns that vital momentum in epilepsy and other neurological research could be jeopardized, especially at a time when innovation in these medical fields is crucial.
Epilepsy is among the most common chronic brain disorders, affecting approximately 3.4 million Americans, with nearly half a million of them being children and teenagers. The societal and economic burdens caused by epilepsy and seizures are extensive, costing the U.S. healthcare system about $54 billion annually. Given these statistics, the potential disruptions in research funding and direction that could accompany Dr. Koroshetz's absence from NINDS are alarming.
Over his nearly two decades at the NINDS, Dr. Koroshetz has overseen various groundbreaking initiatives that have significantly advanced neuroscience and epilepsy research. These initiatives include the BRAIN Initiative, the NIH Blueprint for Neuroscience Research, and the Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program. His efforts have contributed to the development of at least a dozen FDA-approved anti-seizure medications, positioning him as a leader truly committed to improving outcomes for epilepsy patients. Furthermore, he has been a driving force behind the successful Curing the Epilepsies program—a research framework updating benchmarks to measure real progress in treatments and therapies.
With the current state of biomedical research facing uncertainties—especially in the absence of stable leadership in 14 of the NIH's 27 Institutes and Centers—the coalition fears that losing Dr. Koroshetz's steady guidance would lead to further disruptions. The scope of his influence extends to millions of Americans grappling with neurological conditions, underscoring the immediate need for NIH to reconsider its decision.
The organizations urge the NIH not only to reinstate Dr. Koroshetz but also to implement a swift plan ensuring qualified leadership at NINDS—one that prioritizes scientific integrity and progresses in epilepsy research. The coalition emphasizes the critical importance of continuing to advance understanding and management of epilepsy, advocating for evidence-based practices to ensure that scientific inquiries remain focused on finding effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.
The challenges faced by those living with epilepsy are vast and multi-dimensional, often exacerbated by the impacts of lack of treatment or progress in the research landscape. The coalition stands firmly united, advocating for the rights and needs of epilepsy patients and their families—demanding continuous efforts toward meaningful medical advancements and innovative therapies.
As this landscape evolves, the Epilepsy community calls on the NIH and other stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to advancing research initiatives critical for not just those with epilepsy, but all who suffer from related neurological disorders. The hope is that the impactful work led under Dr. Koroshetz's guidance can persist, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for millions impacted by epilepsy.
Dr. Koroshetz has been a stalwart figure within the neuroscience community, celebrated for his effective leadership at NINDS, where he has been instrumental in translating scientific discoveries into practical treatments and technologies that enhance the lives of those affected by neurological diseases. His departure raises concerns that vital momentum in epilepsy and other neurological research could be jeopardized, especially at a time when innovation in these medical fields is crucial.
Epilepsy is among the most common chronic brain disorders, affecting approximately 3.4 million Americans, with nearly half a million of them being children and teenagers. The societal and economic burdens caused by epilepsy and seizures are extensive, costing the U.S. healthcare system about $54 billion annually. Given these statistics, the potential disruptions in research funding and direction that could accompany Dr. Koroshetz's absence from NINDS are alarming.
Over his nearly two decades at the NINDS, Dr. Koroshetz has overseen various groundbreaking initiatives that have significantly advanced neuroscience and epilepsy research. These initiatives include the BRAIN Initiative, the NIH Blueprint for Neuroscience Research, and the Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program. His efforts have contributed to the development of at least a dozen FDA-approved anti-seizure medications, positioning him as a leader truly committed to improving outcomes for epilepsy patients. Furthermore, he has been a driving force behind the successful Curing the Epilepsies program—a research framework updating benchmarks to measure real progress in treatments and therapies.
With the current state of biomedical research facing uncertainties—especially in the absence of stable leadership in 14 of the NIH's 27 Institutes and Centers—the coalition fears that losing Dr. Koroshetz's steady guidance would lead to further disruptions. The scope of his influence extends to millions of Americans grappling with neurological conditions, underscoring the immediate need for NIH to reconsider its decision.
The organizations urge the NIH not only to reinstate Dr. Koroshetz but also to implement a swift plan ensuring qualified leadership at NINDS—one that prioritizes scientific integrity and progresses in epilepsy research. The coalition emphasizes the critical importance of continuing to advance understanding and management of epilepsy, advocating for evidence-based practices to ensure that scientific inquiries remain focused on finding effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.
The challenges faced by those living with epilepsy are vast and multi-dimensional, often exacerbated by the impacts of lack of treatment or progress in the research landscape. The coalition stands firmly united, advocating for the rights and needs of epilepsy patients and their families—demanding continuous efforts toward meaningful medical advancements and innovative therapies.
As this landscape evolves, the Epilepsy community calls on the NIH and other stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to advancing research initiatives critical for not just those with epilepsy, but all who suffer from related neurological disorders. The hope is that the impactful work led under Dr. Koroshetz's guidance can persist, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for millions impacted by epilepsy.
Topics Health）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.