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Epilepsy among children in Greenland
S Blichfeldt1, T Bille, I M Nielsen
1Roskilde University Hospital, Denmark. rssubl@ra.dk
International Journal of Circumpolar Health
|March 2, 2005
Summary
The prevalence of childhood epilepsy in Greenland is 0.34%, similar to Denmark. Medical treatment for epilepsy in Greenlandic children also aligns with Danish standards.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Global Health
Background:
- Epilepsy is thought to be more common in Greenland than Denmark.
- Danish childhood epilepsy prevalence is 0.40%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate childhood epilepsy prevalence in Greenland.
- To assess diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy in Greenlandic children.
Main Methods:
- Study conducted in 13 of 18 Greenland hospitals in autumn 2000.
- Evaluated 11,965 children (0-15 years); confirmed epilepsy diagnoses.
- Collected data from medical records with informed consent.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of childhood epilepsy in Greenland was 0.34%.
- 43 children diagnosed with epilepsy; data obtained for 38.
- Electroencephalograph (EEG) performed in 31 cases; medication followed Danish guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Childhood epilepsy prevalence in Greenland is comparable to Denmark.
- Medical treatment for epilepsy in Greenlandic children is consistent with Danish practices.