Epidemiology of epilepsy in Pakistan: review of literature.

OBJECTIVE

To review literature pertinent to the epidemiology of epilepsy in developing countries with special reference to Pakistan.

METHODS

All the studies published in medical journals related to epilepsy in Pakistan were systematically reviewed. Important findings from various studies are summarized.

RESULTS

Overall prevalence of epilepsy in Pakistan is estimated to be 9.99 per 1000 population. Highest prevalence is seen in people younger than 30 years of age. A slight decrease in prevalence is noted between the ages of 40 and 59. Higher prevalence is observed in rural population. Etiology of epilepsy is more commonly identified in pediatric population. Epilepsy was considered idiopathic in 21 to 76% cases. Only 27.5% epileptic persons in urban areas and 1.9% in the rural areas were treated with AEDs. The burden of epilepsy is not fully evaluated and understood. Generalized seizures were the most common seizure type noted. Knowledge about epilepsy and its care is extremely low.

CONCLUSION

Epilepsy is a common medical problem in Paksitan, more prevalent is rural population. The majority of people with epilepsy are treated inadequately or inappropriately.