Inequities in Epilepsy: A Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Health Equity Research

Background:

• Health inequities in epilepsy represent a significant challenge to patient care.
• Understanding disparities in epilepsy is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
• Existing literature may not fully address the spectrum of health inequities experienced by individuals with epilepsy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of the current literature on health inequities in epilepsy.
• To identify gaps in research regarding various dimensions of inequity.
• To provide recommendations for future research directions.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed in MEDLINE and Ovid Embase (2011-2021).
• Screening and data extraction were conducted in a masked, duplicate manner by trained authors.
• Studies were evaluated for inequities related to race/ethnicity, sex/gender, income, occupation, education, rural/under-resourced populations, and LGBTQ+ status.

Main Results:

• A total of 45 studies were included in the review.
• The most frequently examined inequities were income (40.0%), under-resourced/rural populations (33.3%), and race/ethnicity (33.3%).
• LGBTQ+ status (0.0%), occupation status, and sex/gender were the least examined inequities.

Conclusions:

• The current literature exhibits notable gaps concerning health inequities in epilepsy.
• Income, rural/under-resourced populations, and race/ethnicity are the most studied areas of inequity.
• Future research should prioritize investigating inequities related to LGBTQ+ status, occupation, and sex/gender to achieve equitable, patient-centered care.