Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) in South Africa (SA)
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In a recent research paper by the authors Naidoo and Bhigjee (2021), they examine the spectrum of functional neurological disorders (FNDs) in one of South Africa's tertiary hospitals. In their conclusion, the authors acknowledged that FNDs are most commonly diagnosed in young, unmarried females whom are of black African ethnicity. Furthermore, they could identify the following as potential risk factors:
* family history
* personal exposure to a neurological illness
* certain socioeconomic factors
The most common medical characteristic presented was sensory impairment. The authors clearly indicated that more research is needed to fully understand and manage FNDs in SA.
We can address these issues if a growing number of healthcare professionals, patient advocacy groups and research organisations come together to educate the public, patients and healthcare providers about FND.