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Cost of epilepsy in children attending a tertiary centre in Nigeria

I A Lagunju1, Z O Imam, B O Adedokun

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, & University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.

International Health
|September 17, 2013
PubMed

Insights

The economic burden of childhood epilepsy in Nigeria is substantial, with families facing significant out-of-pocket expenses for treatment and care. This study quantifies the immense costs associated with pediatric epilepsy in Nigeria.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Public Health
  • Health Economics

Background:

  • Epilepsy is a major pediatric neurological disorder globally and in Nigeria.
  • Limited data exists on the economic impact of epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Understanding the financial burden is crucial for policy and support.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To estimate the total economic cost of childhood epilepsy in Nigerian children.
  • To provide essential data on the financial burden of pediatric epilepsy in Nigeria.
  • To inform healthcare policy and resource allocation.

Main Methods:

  • A cost of illness study was conducted.
  • Data collected from 215 pediatric epilepsy patients at University College Hospital, Ibadan.
  • Included demographics, clinical data, resource utilization, and associated costs.

Main Results:

  • Total annual epilepsy costs ranged from N23,200 to N3,298,500 (median N107,600 per patient).
  • Direct medical and non-medical costs comprised 71.8% of the total mean annual cost.
  • Anti-epileptic drugs and in-patient care were significant cost drivers (21.8% and 33.0% respectively).
  • Over half of families spent >20% of their income on epilepsy care.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood epilepsy imposes an enormous economic burden on Nigerian families.
  • High out-of-pocket expenses characterize the financial impact of pediatric epilepsy.
  • Further research and interventions are needed to mitigate the economic burden.

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