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Prevalence of epilepsy in Kelibia, Tunisia
N Attia-Romdhane1, A Mrabet, M Ben Hamida
1Institut National de Neurologie, La Rabta, Tunis, Tunisia.
Epilepsia
|November 1, 1993
Summary
A door-to-door survey in Kelibia, Tunisia, found active epilepsy prevalence of 4.04 per 1,000 people. Generalized convulsive seizures were most common, often associated with cerebral palsy and mental retardation.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Epilepsy prevalence studies are crucial for understanding disease burden.
- Standardized protocols ensure reliable epidemiological data collection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of active epilepsy in Kelibia, Tunisia.
- To identify common epilepsy types and associated conditions.
Main Methods:
- A door-to-door survey conducted in Kelibia, Tunisia.
- Utilized the World Health Organization (WHO) protocol (1981) for data collection.
- Individuals with positive screening were examined by a neurology team using defined diagnostic criteria.
Main Results:
- Identified 141 individuals with active epilepsy.
- Crude prevalence ratio was 4.04 per 1,000; age-adjusted ratio was 3.64 per 1,000.
- Prevalence peaked around age 20, decreasing after 40. Generalized convulsive seizures accounted for 93% of cases.
- Cerebral palsy and mental retardation were frequently associated conditions.
Conclusions:
- The study provides key epilepsy prevalence data for Kelibia, Tunisia.
- Highlights the significant burden of generalized convulsive seizures.
- Underscores the need for integrated care for epilepsy and associated neurological conditions.