Karachi: Noted neurologist and epileptologist Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui of Pakistan delivered a lecture on Temporal Lobe Epilepsy at the 16th International Conference of the SAARC Psychiatric Federation in Male, Maldives. The event, held in collaboration with the Maldives National University, highlighted the theme "Evidence, Equity and Empathy in Mental Healthcare" and attracted experts from the SAARC region and beyond.

According to Aafia Movement, Dr. Siddiqui, the sole epileptologist at the conference, presented her lecture titled "Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: Where the Mind Meets the Brain." Her discussion focused on the psychological effects associated with temporal lobe epilepsy, examining symptoms, emotions, memories, and related brain systems. Her research emphasized that the hippocampus, amygdala, and para-hippocampal regions of the temporal lobe are central to emotions and memories, noting that epileptic activity in these areas can mimic psychological disorders.

Dr. Siddiqui was invited to the conference by Prof. Sheehan Williams, president of the SAARC Psychiatric Federation. A diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Dr. Siddiqui is certified in Epilepsy and Clinical Neurology from Harvard University and has served as director of the Epilepsy Programme at Johns Hopkins University. Currently, she is affiliated with Aga Khan University as a neurologist and epileptologist.

The conference also featured prominent participants from Pakistan, including Prof. Muawidat Rana, Prof. Wajid Ali Akhunzada, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Afridi, and Dr. Majid Ali Abidi. Experts from Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia were also present. Muhammad Ayub, coordinator and spokesman for Aafia Movement Pakistan, expressed pride in Dr. Siddiqui's representation of Pakistan, noting her prominence in global medical forums.