Burden and determinants of developmental disability in epilepsy: Insights from primary healthcare in Palestine

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Ramzi Shawahna1

  • 1Department of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine; Clinical Research Center, An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, Palestine.

Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery
|March 7, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Developmental disability affects nearly a quarter of epilepsy patients in Palestine’s primary care. Younger age, family history of epilepsy, postictal state, and polytherapy are associated factors, highlighting the need for integrated care.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder.
  • Developmental disability is a significant concern in pediatric populations.
  • Understanding the co-occurrence of epilepsy and developmental disability is crucial for effective healthcare planning.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of developmental disability in individuals with epilepsy attending primary healthcare clinics in the West Bank, Palestine.
  • To identify demographic, clinical, and treatment-related factors associated with developmental disability in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted.
  • Medical records of 256 patients with epilepsy from primary care clinics in the West Bank were reviewed.
  • Data collected included demographics, medical history, seizure characteristics, and antiseizure medication use.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of developmental disability among epilepsy patients was 23.0%.
  • Younger age (OR=0.91), family history of epilepsy (OR=4.36), postictal state (OR=15.15), and polytherapy (OR=2.95) were significantly associated with developmental disability.
  • Younger age and family history of epilepsy were key predictors.

Conclusions:

  • A substantial burden of developmental disability exists among people with epilepsy in Palestinian primary care.
  • Integrated care pathways incorporating seizure management, developmental screening, and early intervention are recommended.
  • Targeted risk-reduction strategies are essential for improving outcomes.
Abstract

Keywords:
Developmental disabilityEpilepsyPalestinePrevalencePrimary healthcareRisk factors

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