People with photosensitive epilepsy should not watch the music video for Kanye West’s latest single, All of the Lights, as it contains extensive use of flashing imagery.
Epilepsy Action asked us to analyse the video using the HardingFPA, and the test showed that it contains material that may cause seizures in some people with photosensitive epilepsy (PSE).
Ofcom regulations mean that this video should not be broadcast on UK television. However, it is available online in a number of places. Epilepsy Action are in the process of trying to contact Kanye West’s agent, YouTube and other online sources of the video to ask that they take it down, and have also contacted MTV and other TV stations to make them aware of the issue.
PSE affects more than one in four thousand people. As well as those who are known to have the condition, many more people may have this sensitivity but have not yet had a seizure and therefore have not been diagnosed. The onset of photosensitive epilepsy in an individual typically occurs around the time of puberty; in the age group 7 to 20 years the condition is five times as common as in the general population. At this age seizures are terrifying for the individual, deeply distressing for families and friends and profoundly life changing for all concerned. As well as emotional distress, seizures also carry inherent and situational risks which often include physical harm and can and have lead to loss of life. Once triggered, three quarters of patients remain photosensitive for life.
If you have concerns or have been affected by this video, please contact the Epilepsy Helpline on freephone 0808 800 5050 or by emailing helpline@epilepsy.org.uk . People outside the UK can call on +44 113 210 8800 or find your local epilepsy organisation here http://www.epilepsy.org.uk/about/international-epilepsy-organisations
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