Effects of sociodemographic factors on febrile convulsion prevalence.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to determine the lifetime risk (LTR) of febrile convulsion and the effects of socioeconomic factors affecting this risk among school children in Izmir province, Turkey.

METHODS

Information was collected from school children aged 7-17 years in a school-based cross-sectional study. Stratified cluster sampling technique was used to define the study population, which represents the schools located in the metropolitan area of Izmir. Data were collected through a standard questionnaire from the parents.

RESULTS

LTR was 9.7% (girls, 9.3%; boys, 10.1%, P > 0.05). The risk of febrile convulsion for children whose fathers' education level was equal to or less than primary school was 2.13 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1-4.0) and, for children whose fathers were blue collar workers it was 1.4 (95%CI: 1.0-1.8).

CONCLUSION

LTR for febrile convulsion was relatively high in this population, consistent with studies from other developing countries. Lower socioeconomic status and lack of knowledge about febrile convulsions were main factors related to this risk.