1
|
Tantillo GB, Dongarwar D, Venkatasubba Rao CP, Johnson A, Camey S, Reyes O, Baroni M, Kapur J, Salihu HM, Jetté N. Health care disparities in morbidity and mortality in adults with acute and remote status epilepticus: A national study. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1589-1604. [PMID: 38687128 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although disparities have been described in epilepsy care, their contribution to status epilepticus (SE) and associated outcomes remains understudied. METHODS We used the 2010-2019 National Inpatient Sample to identify SE hospitalizations using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM)/ICD-10-CM codes. SE prevalence was stratified by demographics. Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with electroencephalographic (EEG) monitoring, intubation, tracheostomy, gastrostomy, and mortality. RESULTS There were 486 861 SE hospitalizations (2010-2019), primarily at urban teaching hospitals (71.3%). SE prevalence per 10 000 admissions was 27.3 for non-Hispanic (NH)-Blacks, 16.1 for NH-Others, 15.8 for Hispanics, and 13.7 for NH-Whites (p < .01). SE prevalence was higher in the lowest (18.7) compared to highest income quartile (18.7 vs. 14, p < .01). Older age was associated with intubation, tracheostomy, gastrostomy, and in-hospital mortality. Those ≥80 years old had the highest odds of intubation (odds ratio [OR] = 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.43-1.58), tracheostomy (OR = 2, 95% CI = 1.75-2.27), gastrostomy (OR = 3.37, 95% CI = 2.97-3.83), and in-hospital mortality (OR = 6.51, 95% CI = 5.95-7.13). Minority populations (NH-Black, NH-Other, and Hispanic) had higher odds of tracheostomy and gastrostomy compared to NH-White populations. NH-Black people had the highest odds of tracheostomy (OR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.57-1.86) and gastrostomy (OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.65-1.92). The odds of receiving EEG monitoring rose progressively with higher income quartile (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.34-1.62 for the highest income quartile) and was higher for those in urban teaching compared to rural hospitals (OR = 12.72, 95% CI = 8.92-18.14). Odds of mortality were lower (compared to NH-Whites) in NH-Blacks (OR = .71, 95% CI = .67-.75), Hispanics (OR = .82, 95% CI = .76-.89), and those in the highest income quartiles (OR = .9, 95% CI = .84-.97). SIGNIFICANCE Disparities exist in SE prevalence, tracheostomy, and gastrostomy utilization across age, race/ethnicity, and income. Older age and lower income are also associated with mortality. Access to EEG monitoring is modulated by income and urban teaching hospital status. Older adults, racial/ethnic minorities, and populations of lower income or rural location may represent vulnerable populations meriting increased attention to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela B Tantillo
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Deepa Dongarwar
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Amari Johnson
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Stephanie Camey
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Oriana Reyes
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mariana Baroni
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jaideep Kapur
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Hamisu M Salihu
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nathalie Jetté
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gotlieb E, Agarwal P, Blank LJ, Kwon CS, Muxfeldt M, Young JJ, Jette N. Disparities in Teleneurology Use in Medicaid Beneficiaries With Epilepsy by Practice Setting: Promoting Health Equity in Academic Centers. Neurology 2024; 102:e209348. [PMID: 38608210 PMCID: PMC11175647 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Medicaid beneficiaries in many American academic medical centers can receive care in a separate facility than those not covered by Medicaid. We aimed to identify possible disparities in care by evaluating the association between facility type (integrated faculty practice or Medicaid-only outpatient clinic) and telehealth utilization in people with epilepsy. METHODS We performed retrospective analyses using structured data from the Mount Sinai Health System electronic medical record data from January 2003 to August 2021. We identified people of all ages with epilepsy who were followed by an epileptologist after January 3, 2018, using a validated ICD-9-CM/10-CM coded case definition. We evaluated associations between practice setting and telehealth utilization, an outcome measure that captures the evolving delivery of neurologic care in a post-coronavirus disease 2019 era, using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS We identified 4,586 people with epilepsy seen by an epileptologist, including Medicaid beneficiaries in the Medicaid outpatient clinic (N = 387), Medicaid beneficiaries in the faculty practice after integration (N = 723), and non-Medicaid beneficiaries (N = 3,476). Patients not insured by Medicaid were significantly older (average age 40 years vs 29 in persons seen in Medicaid-only outpatient clinic and 28.5 in persons insured with Medicaid seen in faculty practice [p < 0.0001]). Medicaid beneficiaries were more likely to have drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), with 51.94% of people seen in Medicaid-only outpatient clinic, 41.63% of Medicaid beneficiaries seen in faculty practice, and 37.2% of non-Medicaid beneficiaries having DRE (p < 0.0001). Medicaid outpatient clinic patients were less likely to have telehealth visits (phone or video); 81.65% of patients in the Medicaid outpatient clinic having no telehealth visits vs 71.78% of Medicaid beneficiaries in the faculty practice and 70.89% of non-Medicaid beneficiaries (p < 0.0001). In an adjusted logistic regression analysis, Medicaid beneficiaries had lower odds (0.61; 95% CI 0.46-0.81) of using teleneurology compared with all patients seen in faculty practice (p = 0.0005). DISCUSSION Compared with the Medicaid-only outpatient clinic, we found higher telehealth utilization in the integrated faculty practice with no difference by insurance status (Medicaid vs other). Integrated care may be associated with better health care delivery in people with epilepsy; thus, future research should examine its impact on other epilepsy-related outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Gotlieb
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Parul Agarwal
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Leah J Blank
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Churl-Su Kwon
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Maria Muxfeldt
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - James J Young
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Nathalie Jette
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bensken WP, Vaca GFB, Williams SM, Khan OI, Jobst BC, Stange KC, Sajatovic M, Koroukian SM. Disparities in adherence and emergency department utilization among people with epilepsy: A machine learning approach. Seizure 2023; 110:169-176. [PMID: 37393863 PMCID: PMC10528555 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We used a machine learning approach to identify the combinations of factors that contribute to lower adherence and high emergency department (ED) utilization. METHODS Using Medicaid claims, we identified adherence to anti-seizure medications and the number of ED visits for people with epilepsy in a 2-year follow up period. We used three years of baseline data to identify demographics, disease severity and management, comorbidities, and county-level social factors. Using Classification and Regression Tree (CART) and random forest analyses we identified combinations of baseline factors that predicted lower adherence and ED visits. We further stratified these models by race and ethnicity. RESULTS From 52,175 people with epilepsy, the CART model identified developmental disabilities, age, race and ethnicity, and utilization as top predictors of adherence. When stratified by race and ethnicity, there was variation in the combinations of comorbidities including developmental disabilities, hypertension, and psychiatric comorbidities. Our CART model for ED utilization included a primary split among those with previous injuries, followed by anxiety and mood disorders, headache, back problems, and urinary tract infections. When stratified by race and ethnicity we saw that for Black individuals headache was a top predictor of future ED utilization although this did not appear in other racial and ethnic groups. CONCLUSIONS ASM adherence differed by race and ethnicity, with different combinations of comorbidities predicting lower adherence across racial and ethnic groups. While there were not differences in ED use across races and ethnicity, we observed different combinations of comorbidities that predicted high ED utilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wyatt P Bensken
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Guadalupe Fernandez-Baca Vaca
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Scott M Williams
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Omar I Khan
- Epilepsy Center of Excellence, Baltimore VA Medical Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Barbara C Jobst
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, NH, Lebanon, USA
| | - Kurt C Stange
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Center for Community Health Integration, Departments of Family Medicine & Community Health, and Sociology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Siran M Koroukian
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Versavel S, Subasinghe A, Johnson K, Golonski N, Muhlhausen J, Perry P, Sanchez R. Diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical trials: A practical guide from the perspective of a trial sponsor. Contemp Clin Trials 2023; 126:107092. [PMID: 36702295 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Considering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in clinical trials ensures that data collected for investigational treatments reflect the populations most likely to benefit from those therapies. Resources and recommendations regarding DEI were assembled by the trial sponsor to assist clinical trial development. METHODS A cross-disciplinary team from the sponsoring organization was assembled to inform trial planning and collate resources that promote DEI throughout the clinical trial life cycle. RESULTS Representatives from clinical operations, health economic outcomes research, medical affairs, patient advocacy, procurement, and research and development functional groups united together to implement DEI strategies in clinical trials. Planning strategies focus on eligibility, participant/patient engagement, feedback through patient advocacy organizations, and community interactions. Informed site, investigator, and vendor selection at trial startup supports efforts to recruit diverse target trial populations and engage underrepresented businesses; establishing relationships and demographic target-goal tracking should be maintained throughout trial management. Continued communication during trial closeout consolidates learnings and enhances partnerships with trial participants and patient advocacy organizations. The sponsoring organization continuously updates an internal library of resources to facilitate implementation of outlined strategies. CONCLUSIONS This first iteration of guidance intends to improve the representation of target populations who will ultimately benefit from investigational therapies; to assist sponsor clinical trial teams in developing recruitment and retention plans; and to ensure compliance with federal granting agencies. The sponsoring organization anticipates data from future clinical trials will help characterize the impact of these initiatives to ensure evidence-based practices are used in future clinical trials to enhance DEI.
Collapse
|
5
|
Bensken WP, Alberti PM, Khan OI, Williams SM, Stange KC, Vaca GFB, Jobst BC, Sajatovic M, Koroukian SM. A framework for health equity in people living with epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2022; 188:107038. [PMID: 36332544 PMCID: PMC9797034 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.107038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a disease where disparities and inequities in risk and outcomes are complex and multifactorial. While most epilepsy research to date has identified several key areas of disparities, we set out to provide a multilevel life course model of epilepsy development, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes to highlight how these disparities represent true inequities. Our piece also presents three hypothetical cases that highlight how the solutions to address inequities may vary across the lifespan. We then identify four key domains (structural, socio-cultural, health care, and physiological) that contribute to the persistence of inequities in epilepsy risk and outcomes in the United States. Each of these domains, and their core components in the context of epilepsy, are reviewed and discussed. Further, we highlight the connection between domains and key areas of intervention to strive towards health equity. The goal of this work is to highlight these domains while also providing epilepsy researchers and clinicians with broader context of how their work fits into health equity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wyatt P Bensken
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Philip M Alberti
- AAMC Center for Health Justice, Association of American Medical Colleges, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Omar I Khan
- Epilepsy Center of Excellence, Baltimore VA Medical Center US Department of Veterans Affairs, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Scott M Williams
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kurt C Stange
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Center for Community Health Integration, Departments of Family Medicine & Community Health, and Sociology Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Guadalupe Fernandez-Baca Vaca
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Barbara C Jobst
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department Psychiatry, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Siran M Koroukian
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kamitaki BK, Zhang P, Master A, Adler S, Jain S, Thomas-Hawkins C, Lin H, Cantor JC, Choi H. Differences in elective epilepsy monitoring unit admission rates by race/ethnicity and primary payer in New Jersey. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 136:108923. [PMID: 36166877 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Elective admission to the epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) is an essential service provided by epilepsy centers, particularly for those with drug-resistant epilepsy. Given previously characterized racial and socioeconomic healthcare disparities in the management of epilepsy, we sought to understand access and utilization of this service in New Jersey (NJ). We examined epilepsy hospitalizations in NJ between 2014 and 2016 using state inpatient and emergency department (ED) databases. We stratified admissions by race/ethnicity and primary payer and used these to estimate and compare (1) admission rates per capita in NJ, as well as (2) admission rates per number of ED visits for each group. Patients without insurance underwent elective EMU admission at the lowest rates across all racial/ethnic groups and payer types studied. Black patients with Medicaid and private insurance were admitted at disproportionately low rates relative to their number of ED visits. Hispanic/Latino and Asian/Pacific Islanders with private insurance, Hispanic/Latinos with Medicaid, and Asian/Pacific Islanders with Medicare were also admitted at low rates per capita within each respective payer category. Future studies should focus on addressing causal factors driving healthcare disparities in epilepsy, particularly for patients without adequate health insurance coverage and those who have been historically underserved by the healthcare system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brad K Kamitaki
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Department of Neurology, 125 Paterson Street, Suite 6200, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA.
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Department of Neurology, 125 Paterson Street, Suite 6200, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Aditi Master
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 675 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Shoshana Adler
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 675 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Saloni Jain
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 675 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Charlotte Thomas-Hawkins
- Rutgers University School of Nursing, Division of Nursing Science, 180 University Ave, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Haiqun Lin
- Rutgers University School of Nursing, Division of Nursing Science, 180 University Ave, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Joel C Cantor
- Rutgers University, Center for State Health Policy, 112 Paterson Street, 5th Floor, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Hyunmi Choi
- Columbia University, Department of Neurology, 710 West 168(th) Street, 7(th) Floor, New York, NY 10032, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Asgharian P, Quispe C, Herrera-Bravo J, Sabernavaei M, Hosseini K, Forouhandeh H, Ebrahimi T, Sharafi-Badr P, Tarhriz V, Soofiyani SR, Helon P, Rajkovic J, Durna Daştan S, Docea AO, Sharifi-Rad J, Calina D, Koch W, Cho WC. Pharmacological effects and therapeutic potential of natural compounds in neuropsychiatric disorders: An update. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:926607. [PMID: 36188551 PMCID: PMC9521271 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.926607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric diseases are a group of disorders that cause significant morbidity and disability. The symptoms of psychiatric disorders include anxiety, depression, eating disorders, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and conduct disorder. Various medicinal plants are frequently used as therapeutics in traditional medicine in different parts of the world. Nowadays, using medicinal plants as an alternative medication has been considered due to their biological safety. Despite the wide range of medications, many patients are unable to tolerate the side effects and eventually lose their response. By considering the therapeutic advantages of medicinal plants in the case of side effects, patients may prefer to use them instead of chemical drugs. Today, the use of medicinal plants in traditional medicine is diverse and increasing, and these plants are a precious heritage for humanity. Investigation about traditional medicine continues, and several studies have indicated the basic pharmacology and clinical efficacy of herbal medicine. In this article, we discuss five of the most important and common psychiatric illnesses investigated in various studies along with conventional therapies and their pharmacological therapies. For this comprehensive review, data were obtained from electronic databases such as MedLine/PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, EMBASE, DynaMed Plus, ScienceDirect, and TRIP database. Preclinical pharmacology studies have confirmed that some bioactive compounds may have beneficial therapeutic effects in some common psychiatric disorders. The mechanisms of action of the analyzed biocompounds are presented in detail. The bioactive compounds analyzed in this review are promising phytochemicals for adjuvant and complementary drug candidates in the pharmacotherapy of neuropsychiatric diseases. Although comparative studies have been carefully reviewed in the preclinical pharmacology field, no clinical studies have been found to confirm the efficacy of herbal medicines compared to FDA-approved medicines for the treatment of mental disorders. Therefore, future clinical studies are needed to accelerate the potential use of natural compounds in the management of these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parina Asgharian
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Cristina Quispe
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Jesús Herrera-Bravo
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Santo Tomas, Chile
- Center of Molecular Biology and Pharmacogenetics, Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Mahsa Sabernavaei
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Hosseini
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Haleh Forouhandeh
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Ebrahimi
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Paria Sharafi-Badr
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahideh Tarhriz
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- *Correspondence: Vahideh Tarhriz, ; Saiedeh Razi Soofiyani, ; Jovana Rajkovic, ; Javad Sharifi-Rad, ; Daniela Calina, ; Wojciech Koch, ; William C. Cho,
| | - Saiedeh Razi Soofiyani
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Sina Educational, Research and Treatment Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- *Correspondence: Vahideh Tarhriz, ; Saiedeh Razi Soofiyani, ; Jovana Rajkovic, ; Javad Sharifi-Rad, ; Daniela Calina, ; Wojciech Koch, ; William C. Cho,
| | - Paweł Helon
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce, Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Jovana Rajkovic
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- *Correspondence: Vahideh Tarhriz, ; Saiedeh Razi Soofiyani, ; Jovana Rajkovic, ; Javad Sharifi-Rad, ; Daniela Calina, ; Wojciech Koch, ; William C. Cho,
| | - Sevgi Durna Daştan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
- Beekeeping Development Application and Research Center, Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Azuay, Cuenca, Ecuador
- *Correspondence: Vahideh Tarhriz, ; Saiedeh Razi Soofiyani, ; Jovana Rajkovic, ; Javad Sharifi-Rad, ; Daniela Calina, ; Wojciech Koch, ; William C. Cho,
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
- *Correspondence: Vahideh Tarhriz, ; Saiedeh Razi Soofiyani, ; Jovana Rajkovic, ; Javad Sharifi-Rad, ; Daniela Calina, ; Wojciech Koch, ; William C. Cho,
| | - Wojciech Koch
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- *Correspondence: Vahideh Tarhriz, ; Saiedeh Razi Soofiyani, ; Jovana Rajkovic, ; Javad Sharifi-Rad, ; Daniela Calina, ; Wojciech Koch, ; William C. Cho,
| | - William C. Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Vahideh Tarhriz, ; Saiedeh Razi Soofiyani, ; Jovana Rajkovic, ; Javad Sharifi-Rad, ; Daniela Calina, ; Wojciech Koch, ; William C. Cho,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ioannou P, Foster DL, Sander JW, Dupont S, Gil-Nagel A, Drogon O'Flaherty E, Alvarez-Baron E, Medjedovic J. The burden of epilepsy and unmet need in people with focal seizures. Brain Behav 2022; 12:e2589. [PMID: 36017757 PMCID: PMC9480957 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions worldwide. As a chronic condition, epilepsy imposes a significant burden on people with epilepsy and society. We aimed to assess the burden and unmet need of individuals with epilepsy and their caregivers, focusing on focal seizures, the main type of seizure in adults and children. METHODS A targeted evidence review of the burden of epilepsy, focusing on focal seizures, was conducted to identify articles reporting: epidemiology, mortality, morbidity, quality of life (QoL), and costs. RESULTS Focal seizures affect up to ∼61% of people with epilepsy. They are associated with an increased risk of injury and premature death than the general population. People with epilepsy also have high comorbidity, particularly depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments. Higher seizure frequency, adverse treatment events, and employment concerns reduce QoL. A reduction in caregivers' QoL is also often reported. Epilepsy requires long-term treatment accounting for high individual costs. Hospitalizations and antiseizure medications (ASMs) are the leading cost drivers of inpatient management and indirect costs with high unemployment rates, particularly in drug-resistant populations. Despite the advent of new treatments, a high unmet need remains unaddressed; approximately 40% of people with epilepsy are drug-resistant, further increasing the risks associated with epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight a substantial burden of illness and unmet needs in individuals with focal seizures, especially those with drug-resistant epilepsy. Suboptimal treatment options negatively impact QoL and, consequently, a sizeable economic burden indicating the need for new treatments and prioritizing this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Josemir W Sander
- NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK.,Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, UK.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, the Netherlands
| | | | - Antonio Gil-Nagel
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Ruber Internacional, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Comorbidities are a common feature in epilepsy, but neither the entire spectrum nor the significance of such comorbidities has been fully explored. We review comorbidities associated with epilepsy and their associated burden, provide an overview of relationships, and discuss a new conceptualization of the comorbidities. RECENT FINDINGS The epidemiology of the comorbidities of epilepsy and effects on health outcomes, healthcare use, and healthcare expenditures have been partly delineated. Distinct mechanisms of the associations have been suggested but not entirely ascertained. Movement from conceptualizing epilepsy as a condition to a symptom-complex has occurred. SUMMARY Comorbidities are common among people with epilepsy and are associated with poorer clinical outcomes and quality of life, greater use of health resources, and increased expenditure. Becoming aware of the associated mechanisms and their uncertainty is central to understanding the relationships between epilepsy and comorbid health conditions, which have implications for diagnosis and screening, medical management, and surgical management. Conceptualizing comorbidities of epilepsy as precipitating factors and epilepsy as the symptom will improve the understanding of epilepsy and catalyze research and improvements in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A Shlobin
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Josemir W Sander
- NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG & Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, UK
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede 2103SW, The Netherlands
- Neurology Department, West of China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Alhashimi R, Thoota S, Ashok T, Palyam V, Azam AT, Odeyinka O, Sange I. Comorbidity of Epilepsy and Depression: Associated Pathophysiology and Management. Cureus 2022; 14:e21527. [PMID: 35223302 PMCID: PMC8863389 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures. Depression may arise as a result of other mental or physical problems or as a side effect of the drugs used to treat such illnesses, or it could be caused by epilepsy-related structural abnormalities. However, physicians are hesitant to prescribe antidepressants to patients with epilepsy due to concerns about decreasing seizure thresholds and the harmful drug interactions between antidepressants and antiepileptic medicines. As a result, the question about the optimal care of epileptic patients who suffer from depression remains unanswered. Despite the complicated link between epilepsy and depression, the co-administration of antidepressants and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is safe and beneficial when appropriately managed. A focused evaluation for depression (regardless of social, economic, or personal circumstances) might identify people who benefit from medical care and therapeutic assistance. Vagus nerve stimulation and psychological therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, individual or group psychotherapy, patient support groups, family therapy, and counseling are nonpharmacological therapeutic alternatives. In terms of treatment strategy, it is critical to optimize seizure control and limit antiepileptic medications' adverse effects. Psychotherapy for depression in epilepsy is underused, even though it has been shown to be helpful in well-controlled studies. This review article has discussed some parts of the most common pathophysiologies of depression in patients with epilepsy, highlighted the efficacy of psychotherapy and antidepressant drugs, and explored the optimal care of patients with epilepsy who suffer from depression.
Collapse
|
11
|
Kwon CS, Wagner RG, Carpio A, Jetté N, Newton CR, Thurman DJ. The worldwide epilepsy treatment gap: A systematic review and recommendations for revised definitions - A report from the ILAE Epidemiology Commission. Epilepsia 2022; 63:551-564. [PMID: 35001365 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In order to more appropriately apply and understand the "epilepsy treatment gap" (ETG) concept in current health systems, revised conceptual and operational definitions of ETG are timely and necessary. This article therefore systematically reviews worldwide studies of the ETG, distinguishing high-, middle-, and low-income regions, and provides recommendations for an updated International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) definition of ETG. METHODS A systematic review of the ETG was performed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards. The search was conducted from January 1990 to July 2019, in the online databases of Ovid MEDLINE and Embase. Identified abstracts were reviewed in duplicate and data independently extracted using a standard proforma. Data describing treatment gap information including both diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of access to epilepsy treatment were recorded. Descriptive statistics are presented. RESULTS The treatment gap reported in the 45 distinctive populations represented 33 countries. Treatment gap definitions varied widely. The reported ETGs ranged broadly from 5.6% in Norway to 100% in parts of Tibet, Togo, and Uganda. The wide range of reported ETGs was multifactorial in origin including true differences in the availability and utilization of health care among study populations, variations in operational definitions of the epilepsy treatment gap, and methodological differences in sampling and identifying representative epilepsy cases in populations. Significance and recommendations For the ETG to be a useful metric to compare levels of unmet epilepsy care across different countries and regions, a standardized definition must be adapted, recognizing some of the limitations of the current definitions. Our proposed definition takes into account the lack of effective health care insurance, the diagnostic gap, the therapeutic gap, quality-of-care, and other unmet health care needs."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Churl-Su Kwon
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ryan G Wagner
- MRC/Wits Agincourt Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Arturo Carpio
- Research Institute, University of Cuenca School of Medicine, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Nathalie Jetté
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Husein N, Josephson CB, Keezer MR. Understanding cardiovascular disease in older adults with epilepsy. Epilepsia 2021; 62:2060-2071. [PMID: 34245013 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to investigate the distribution of social, lifestyle/behavior, and chronic disease risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people with epilepsy as compared to the general population. We also measured the cross-sectional association between epilepsy and CVD in older adults, with and without adjustments for a history of stroke. METHODS We analyzed data for 44 817 participants in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, including 751 individuals with a lifetime history of epilepsy. We modeled associations using ordinal and binomial logistic regression, as well as log-binomial regression, with multiple imputation for missing data. We measured the attributable fraction of CVD burden due to stroke. RESULTS The majority of the CVD risk factors were significantly more prevalent in people with epilepsy as compared to the general population without epilepsy, independent of age and sex. After adjusting for a history of stroke, people with epilepsy had a significantly higher prevalence of heart disease (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02-1.57) and peripheral vascular disease (PR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.50-2.36). Stroke accounted for 36% (95% CI = 19.85-48.76) of the increased prevalence of any CVD among people with epilepsy, similar to the 32% (95% CI = 27.82-36.25) among people without epilepsy. After adjustment for all other CVD risk factors, peripheral vascular disease remained significantly more prevalent (PR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.28-2.12) in people with epilepsy as compared to those without. SIGNIFICANCE CVD risk factors are more prevalent in people with epilepsy, independent of age and sex, and the association between epilepsy and CVD is independent of the association between epilepsy and stroke. The association between peripheral vascular disease and epilepsy may differ from the associations with other types of CVD. These findings are important steps in more comprehensively understanding the origins of CVD in people with epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nafisa Husein
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Colin B Josephson
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mark R Keezer
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jeon JY, Lee H, Shin JY, Moon HJ, Lee SY, Kim JM. Increasing Trends in the Incidence and Prevalence of Epilepsy in Korea. J Clin Neurol 2021; 17:393-399. [PMID: 34184447 PMCID: PMC8242311 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2021.17.3.393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE There have been few reports on recent trends in the occurrence of epilepsy. The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence and prevalence of epilepsy and analyze their annual trends in Korea over the period 2009-2017. METHODS This nationwide population-based study was carried out using the National Health Insurance Service of Korea database. A prevalent case was defined as one of a patient receiving a prescription of anticonvulsants under the diagnostic codes for epilepsy or seizure. An incident case was ascertained by confirming the absence of any epilepsy-related diagnostic codes and anticonvulsant prescription for 2 years or more before the operational definition for a prevalent case was met. Alternative operational definitions for epilepsy were tested. The temporal trends of the incidence and prevalence of epilepsy were analyzed using a Poisson regression model, and are expressed as average annual percentage changes (AAPCs). RESULTS The incidence of epilepsy increased from 28.7/100,000 persons in 2009 to 35.4/100,000 persons in 2017. The prevalence increased gradually from 3.4/1,000 persons in 2009 to 4.8/1,000 persons in 2017. These increasing trends were more evident among elderly subjects aged ≥75 years and in those who had codes for epilepsy or seizure as an additional diagnosis. Age standardization revealed a less prominent but still increasing trend in both incidence (AAPC=0.48%) and prevalence (AAPC=3.11%). CONCLUSIONS There have been increasing trends in both the prevalence and incidence of epilepsy in Korea between 2009 and 2017. This finding appears to be related to societal aging and the high incidence of symptomatic epilepsy in the elderly population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji Ye Jeon
- Department of Neurology, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Hyesung Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
| | - Ju Young Shin
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea.,Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Science & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Jin Moon
- Department of Neurology, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Bucheon, Korea.
| | - Seo Young Lee
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University Chuncheon, Korea.,Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Medical Bigdata Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea.
| | - Jae Moon Kim
- Department of Neurology, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bensken WP, Navale SM, Andrew AS, Jobst BC, Sajatovic M, Koroukian SM. Delays and disparities in diagnosis for adults with epilepsy: Findings from U.S. Medicaid data. Epilepsy Res 2020; 166:106406. [PMID: 32745887 PMCID: PMC7998893 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify disparities in care pathways and time from first seizure to epilepsy diagnosis, we examined 2010-2014 Medicaid claims (including pharmacy) data from 16 States for individuals with incident epilepsy. METHODS We identified adults (18-64) with an incident epilepsy diagnosis from 1/2012 through 6/2014. These individuals were enrolled in Medicaid for the entire study period and had no history of anti-epileptic drug (AED) use before their first seizure claim. We identified care pathways and calculated the duration from initial seizure to epilepsy diagnosis. We tested associations between these pathways and race/ethnicity, as well as time differences between care pathways using a Chi-squared and Kruskal-Wallis tests. RESULTS The 14,337 adults followed five different care pathways. Their overall median duration from first seizure code to epilepsy diagnosis code was 19.0 months (interquartile range: 4.6, 30.4), and 56.0% filled an AED prescription. Some minorities were more likely to follow pathways with increased durations and delay to diagnosis, and the duration to diagnosis varied significantly across the care pathways. SIGNIFICANCE The many different care pathways seen in people with epilepsy show substantial and significant time delays between first seizure diagnosis and epilepsy diagnosis, including significant racial/ethnic disparities that warrant attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wyatt P Bensken
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.
| | - Suparna M Navale
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Angeline S Andrew
- Department of Neurology: Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Barbara C Jobst
- Department of Neurology: Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry: University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Siran M Koroukian
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tian N, Croft JB, Kobau R, Zack MM, Greenlund KJ. CDC-supported epilepsy surveillance and epidemiologic studies: A review of progress since 1994. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 109:107123. [PMID: 32451250 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
To report progress, to identify gaps, and to plan epilepsy surveillance and research activities more effectively, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Epilepsy Program has summarized findings from selected CDC-supported surveillance and epidemiologic studies about epilepsy from 1994 through 2019. We identified publications supported by CDC funding and publications conducted by the CDC Epilepsy Program alone or with partners. We included only epilepsy surveillance and epidemiologic studies focusing on epilepsy burden, epilepsy-related outcomes, and healthcare utilization. We describe the findings of these studies in the following order: 1)prevalence; 2)incidence; 3)epilepsy-related outcomes by selected demographic characteristics; 4)cysticercosis or neurocysticercosis (NCC); 5)traumatic brain injury (TBI); 6)comorbidity; 7)mortality; 8)access to care; 9)quality of care; and 10) cost. We have characterized these findings in relation to the scope of the first three domains of the 2012 Institute of Medicine report on epilepsy and its relevant first four recommendations. From 1994 through 2019, 76 publications on epilepsy-related epidemiologic and surveillance studies were identified. Over the past 25 years, CDC has expanded community, state, and national surveillance on epilepsy and supported epidemiologic studies by using multiple assessment methods and validated case-ascertainment criteria to identify epilepsy burden, epilepsy-related outcomes, and healthcare utilization in the general population or in population subgroups. Among identified research opportunities, studies on epilepsy incidence and risk factors, mortality, and cost are considered as important surveillance gaps. Other remaining gaps and suggested surveillance strategies are also proposed. Findings from this review may help epilepsy researchers and other stakeholders reference and prioritize future activities for epidemiologic and surveillance studies in epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niu Tian
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Janet B Croft
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Rosemarie Kobau
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Matthew M Zack
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Kurt J Greenlund
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cihan E, Hesdorffer DC, Brandsoy M, Li L, Fowler DR, Graham JK, Karlovich M, Donner EJ, Devinsky O, Friedman D. Socioeconomic disparities in SUDEP in the US. Neurology 2020; 94:e2555-e2566. [PMID: 32327496 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000009463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) rates. METHODS We queried all decedents presented for medico-legal investigation at 3 medical examiner (ME) offices across the country (New York City, Maryland, San Diego County) in 2009 to 2010 and 2014 to 2015. We identified all decedents for whom epilepsy/seizure was listed as cause/contributor to death or comorbid condition on the death certificate. We then reviewed all available reports. Decedents determined to have SUDEP were included for analysis. We used median income in the ZIP code of residence as a surrogate for SES. For each region, zip code regions were ranked by median household income and divided into quartiles based on total population for 2 time periods. Region-, age-, and income-adjusted epilepsy prevalence was estimated in each zip code. SUDEP rates in the highest and lowest SES quartiles were evaluated to determine disparity. Examined SUDEP rates in 2 time periods were also compared. RESULTS There were 159 and 43 SUDEP cases in the lowest and highest SES quartiles. ME-investigated SUDEP rate ratio between the lowest and highest SES quartiles was 2.6 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.7-4.1, p < 0.0001) in 2009 to 2010 and 3.3 (95% CI 1.9-6.0, p < 0.0001) in 2014 to 2015. There was a significant decline in overall SUDEP rate between the 2 study periods (36% decrease, 95% CI 22%-48%, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION ME-investigated SUDEP incidence was significantly higher in people with the lowest SES compared to the highest SES. The difference persisted over a 5-year period despite decreased overall SUDEP rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esma Cihan
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dale C Hesdorffer
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Brandsoy
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ling Li
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David R Fowler
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason K Graham
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Karlovich
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth J Donner
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Orrin Devinsky
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Friedman
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Allen SE, Limdi NA, Westrick AC, Ver Hoef LW, Szaflarski JP, Kuzniecky RI, Knowlton RC. Racial differences in adult-onset MRI-negative temporal lobe epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 100:106501. [PMID: 31574425 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We recently detected a significant racial difference in our population with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) seizure monitoring unit. We found that Black patients were more likely than their White counterparts to carry a TLE diagnosis. Using this same patient population, we focus on the patients with TLE to better describe the relationship between race and epidemiology in this population. METHODS We analyzed the data from patients diagnosed with TLE admitted to the UAB seizure monitoring unit between January 2000 and December 2011. For patients with a video electroencephalography (EEG) confirmed diagnosis of TLE (n = 385), basic demographic information including race and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were collected. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression were used to explore the relationship between MRI findings, demographic data, and race. RESULTS For Black patients with TLE, we found that they were more likely to be female (odds ratio [OR] = 1.91, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14-3.19), have seizure onset in adulthood (OR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.43-3.19), and have normal MRIs (OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.04-2.77) compared to White counterparts with TLE after adjusting for covariates. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that Black race (compared to White) is associated with higher expression of adult-onset MRI-negative TLE, an important subtype of epilepsy with unique implications for evaluation, treatment, and prognosis. If validated in other cohorts, the findings may explain the lower reported rates of epilepsy surgery utilization among Blacks. The racial differences in surgical utilization could be due to a greater prevalence of an epilepsy that is less amenable to surgical resection rather than to cultural differences or access to care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E Allen
- University of Oregon Health and Science, Department of Neurology, United States of America
| | - Nita A Limdi
- University of Alabama Birmingham, Department of Neurology, United States of America
| | - Ashly C Westrick
- University of Miami, Department of Public Health Sciences, United States of America
| | - Lawrence W Ver Hoef
- University of Alabama Birmingham, Department of Neurology, United States of America
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- University of Alabama Birmingham, Department of Neurology, United States of America
| | - Ruben I Kuzniecky
- Northwell Health Physician Partners Neurology at Lenox Hill, United States of America
| | - Robert C Knowlton
- University of California San Francisco, Department of Neurology, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Quarells RC, Spruill TM, Escoffery C, Shallcross A, Montesdeoca J, Diaz L, Payano L, Thompson NJ. Depression self-management in people with epilepsy: Adapting project UPLIFT for underserved populations. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 99:106422. [PMID: 31371202 PMCID: PMC7432961 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Data from the 2015 National Health Interview Survey found that the prevalence of active epilepsy has increased to three million adults. Although findings have been mixed, some research indicates that Blacks and Hispanics share a higher burden of epilepsy prevalence compared with non-Hispanic whites. Moreover, depression is a common comorbid condition among people with epilepsy (PWE), affecting up to 55% of the epilepsy population. Widespread use and increased public health impact of evidence-based self-management interventions is critical to reducing disease burden and may require adapting original interventions into more culturally relevant versions for racial and ethnic minority groups. Project UPLIFT provides access to mental health self-management skills training that is distance-delivered, does not interfere with medication management, and has been shown to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms. This paper presents the process of exploring the adaptation of Project UPLIFT for Black and Hispanic PWE and herein suggests that evidence-based interventions can be successfully adapted for new populations or cultural settings through a careful and systematic process. Additional key lessons learned include the importance of community engagement and that language matters. Ultimately, if the adapted Project UPLIFT intervention produces positive outcomes for diverse populations of PWE, it will extend the strategies available to reduce the burden of depression. Implementing evidence-based interventions such as Project UPLIFT is critical to reducing disease burden; however, their delivery may need to be tailored to the needs and culture of the populations of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rakale C Quarells
- Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, SW, Atlanta, GA 30310, United States.
| | - Tanya M Spruill
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Cam Escoffery
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Amanda Shallcross
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Jacqueline Montesdeoca
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Laura Diaz
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Leydi Payano
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Nancy J Thompson
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
McGee RE, Sajatovic M, Quarells RC, Johnson EK, Liu H, Spruill TM, Fraser RT, Janevic M, Escoffery C, Thompson NJ. Depression and quality of life among African Americans with epilepsy: Findings from the Managing Epilepsy Well (MEW) Network integrated database. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 94:301-306. [PMID: 30975571 PMCID: PMC7430521 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Depression and worse quality of life (QOL) are significantly associated with epilepsy. However, limited descriptive data on depression and quality of life among African Americans with epilepsy are available. This study sought to describe the prevalence of depression among African Americans with epilepsy participating in self-management studies and to examine the relationship between depression and QOL. Using data from the Managing Epilepsy Well (MEW) research network, a subgroup of African Americans with epilepsy were selected for the analytic sample. Descriptive statistics indicated the prevalence of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]) and reports of epilepsy-specific QOL (Quality of Life in Epilepsy-10 [QOLIE-10]) in the sample. Multiple linear regression examined the relationship between depression and QOL while controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and seizure frequency. The prevalence of depression (PHQ-9 ≥; 10) was 47.7%. Quality of life was the only variable significantly associated with depressive symptoms in multivariable analyses, suggesting that depressive symptoms have a stronger relationship with QOL than seizure frequency. With the high levels of depression and the significant relationship with QOL, regular screening of depression is needed among African Americans with epilepsy. Self-management programs that improve mood may also play an important role in improving the lives of African Americans with epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin E McGee
- Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States of America.
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 10524 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States of America.
| | - Rakale C Quarells
- Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA 30310, United States of America.
| | - Erika K Johnson
- University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center, 325 Ninth Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America.
| | - Hongyan Liu
- Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 10524 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States of America
| | - Tanya M Spruill
- New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, United States of America.
| | - Robert T Fraser
- University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center, 325 Ninth Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America.
| | - Mary Janevic
- University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America.
| | - Cam Escoffery
- Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States of America.
| | - Nancy J Thompson
- Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ullah S, Ali N, Khan A, Ali S, Nazish HR. The Epidemiological Characteristics of Epilepsy in the Province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Front Neurol 2018; 9:845. [PMID: 30459698 PMCID: PMC6232227 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan has a high incidence of epilepsy and a high proportion of low socioeconomic background and high treatment gap. Considering the changes over the past 20 years little is known about the current epidemiological characteristics of epilepsy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The current study was focused to find the impact of various contributing factors on the clinical response to anti-epileptic drugs in the KP population, Pakistan. A total of 315 participants aged 19.1 ± 8.6 years were examined. Mean age of the patients was 18 ± 8.1 year. Epilepsy was high in male patients (64.39%) and urban areas (60.1%). Mostly, 88.6% of patients were belonging to low socioeconomic status background. 42.4% patients have positive family history for epilepsy and 42.8% patients had consanguineous marriages. Middle SES class patients (OR, 2.22 [CI, 0.54-9.1]) were slightly associated with controlled response to CBZ and VPA therapy. Absence seizure (OR, 1.16 [CI, 0.59-2.3]), and Complex partial seizure (OR, 1.29 [CI, 0.58-6.3]) showed good response to CBZ therapy while, Myoclonic seizure (OR, 2.23 [CI, 0.05-8.8]) was responsive to VPA therapy. However, non-compliance (R 2 0.82, P < 0.0001) and nature of seizures (R 2 0.83, P < 0.0001) were associated with the high risk for poor response to both CBZ and VPA therapy. Epilepsy was high in male patients and in urban areas. Most patients were belonging to low socioeconomic status. Non-compliance, low socioeconomic and nature of seizures strongly predict poor clinical response of anti-epileptic drugs therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shakir Ullah
- Pharmacology/Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Pakistan
- Center for Neuroscience, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Niaz Ali
- Pharmacology/Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Adnan Khan
- Neurology Departments, Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Saad Ali
- Neurology Departments, Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Haleema Rehana Nazish
- Pharmacology/Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Durkin MS, Yeargin-Allsopp M. Socioeconomic Status and Pediatric Neurologic Disorders: Current Evidence. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2018; 27:16-25. [PMID: 30293586 PMCID: PMC8340602 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2018.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Socioeconomic status (SES) is an important risk factor for many neurological disorders and a determinant of health outcomes and quality of life, especially for individuals with neurologic disorders and developmental disabilities. This article focuses on the relationship between SES and pediatric epilepsy, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disability. Disparities in the prevalence and long-term impact of SES on functioning in persons with disabilities are observed worldwide. Clinicians can use the information presented in the article to target early identification and interventions for improving outcomes in populations most at risk for these disorders and for poor health, social, and economic outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maureen S Durkin
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Allen SE, Limdi N, Westrick AC, Ver Hoef LW, Szaflarski JP, Knowlton RC. Racial disparities in temporal lobe epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2017; 140:56-60. [PMID: 29272743 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2017.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Revised: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study reports on epilepsy type period prevalence and black-white racial differences in a large patient population in the Southeastern United States. METHODS For all patients visiting the University of Alabama at Birmingham's seizure monitoring unit between 2000 and 2011 (n = 3240), video EEG diagnosis was recorded along with basic demographic information. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) diagnosis. RESULTS The racial distribution was 77.3% white, and 20.0% black (other races were only 2.3% of the population). Most patients had either TLE (n = 630) or PNES (n = 1150) compared to other focal (n = 424) or generalized epilepsies (n = 224). The diagnosis of TLE was significantly greater for blacks than whites (odds ratio [OR] = 1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.47-2.37). The period prevalence measures for the other conclusively diagnosed epilepsies were not significantly different. Women were disproportionately represented in the study population, and black women carried the most statistical weight for the TLE prevalence difference. INTERPRETATION The nearly two-fold larger period prevalence of TLE among black patients is a striking finding that merits explanation. Although some selection bias exists due to a moderately lower than expected representation of blacks, socioeconomic status or access to care should not be assumed to be the only factors that might be responsible for the prevalence difference. Rather, all clues for distinct pathophysiological racial differences should be explored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E Allen
- Oregon Health Sciences University, Department of Neurology, United States.
| | - Nita Limdi
- University of Alabama Birmingham, Department of Neurology, United States
| | - Ashly C Westrick
- University of Miami, Department of Public Health Sciences, United States.
| | | | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- University of Alabama Birmingham, Department of Neurology, United States.
| | - Robert C Knowlton
- University of California San Francisco, Department of Neurology, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Prevalence and Incidence of Drug-Resistant Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy in the United States. World Neurosurg 2017; 99:662-666. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.12.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
24
|
Kroner BL, Fahimi M, Gaillard WD, Kenyon A, Thurman DJ. Epilepsy or seizure disorder? The effect of cultural and socioeconomic factors on self-reported prevalence. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 62:214-7. [PMID: 27494358 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Self-reported epilepsy may be influenced by culture, knowledge, and beliefs. We screened 6420 residents of the District of Columbia (DC) for epilepsy to investigate whether socio-demographics were associated with whether they reported their diagnosis as epilepsy or as seizure disorder. Lifetime and active prevalence rates were 0.54% and 0.21%, respectively for 'epilepsy' and 1.30% and 0.70%, respectively for 'seizure disorder'. Seizure disorder was reported significantly more often than epilepsy among blacks, females, respondents≥50years, those with lower level education, respondents who lived alone and in low income neighborhoods, and those who resided in DC for at least five years. Clinicians should assure that patients and caregivers understand that epilepsy is synonymous with seizure disorder and other culturally appropriate terms, in order to optimize compliance with treatment, disease management instructions, and utilization of other resources targeted at persons with epilepsy. Furthermore, education and awareness campaigns aimed at improving access-to-care, reducing stigma, and increasing awareness of adverse events, such as SUDEP, should include a more diverse definition of epilepsy in their messages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara L Kroner
- RTI International, Biostatistics and Epidemiology Division, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Rockville, MD 20852, USA.
| | - Mansour Fahimi
- GfK Custom Research, LLC Marketing & Data Sciences, Wayne, PA, USA.
| | - William D Gaillard
- Children's National Health Systems, Division of Epilepsy and Neurophysiology, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
| | - Anne Kenyon
- RTI International, Survey Research Division, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - David J Thurman
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wilson DA, Malek AM, Wagner JL, Wannamaker BB, Selassie AW. Mortality in people with epilepsy: A statewide retrospective cohort study. Epilepsy Res 2016; 122:7-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2016.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Revised: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
26
|
|
27
|
El-Tallawy HN, Farghaly WM, Rageh TA, Shehata GA, Metwally NA, Badry R, Sayed MA, Abdelwarith AM, Kandil MR, Hamed MA, Mohamed KO, Tohamy AM. Spectrum of epilepsy - prevalence, impact, and treatment gap: an epidemiological study from Al-Quseir, Egypt. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2016; 12:1111-8. [PMID: 27257380 PMCID: PMC4874633 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s87765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiology continues to be an important research tool in the study of epilepsy and related disorders, providing a better understanding of the frequency, causes, and natural history of the disorder. OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of epilepsy in Al-Quseir, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt, and its magnitude of treatment gap. METHODS The study was part of a door-to-door study, including every door, to screen all inhabitants in Al-Quseir (33,818 inhabitants) by three specialists of neurology and 15 female social workers (for demographic data collection) using a standardized screening questionnaire. All suspected cases were subjected to detailed history, clinical examination, and electroencephalogram. Neuroimaging studies and estimation of serum drug level were done in select cases if needed. RESULTS The study revealed that the lifetime prevalence rate of epilepsy in Al-Quseir is 5.5/1,000, with the highest peak during early childhood, while that of active epilepsy is 3.3/1,000 population. The annual incidence rate is 48/100,000, and the age-specific incidence rate has a U-shaped pattern with two peaks of incidence in early infancy and elderly life. Localization-related epilepsy is the most frequently encountered type (58.8%). The treatment gap of epilepsy in Al-Quseir is 83.8%. CONCLUSION The lifetime prevalence of epilepsy in Al-Quseir city, Red Sea Governorate, was 5.5/1000.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tarek A Rageh
- Department of Neurology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Nabil A Metwally
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University - Assiut Branch, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Reda Badry
- Department of Neurology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed M Abdelwarith
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University - Assiut Branch, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | | | | | - Amal M Tohamy
- Department of Neurology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Community-based epidemiological study of epilepsy in the Qena governorate in Upper Egypt, a door-to-door survey. Epilepsy Res 2015; 113:68-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2015.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Revised: 03/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
29
|
Tang DH, Malone DC, Warholak TL, Chong J, Armstrong EP, Slack MK, Hsu CH, Labiner DM. Prevalence and Incidence of Epilepsy in an Elderly and Low-Income Population in the United States. J Clin Neurol 2015; 11:252-61. [PMID: 26022458 PMCID: PMC4507380 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2015.11.3.252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose The purpose of this study was to estimate the incidence and prevalence of epilepsy among an elderly and poor population in the United States. Methods Arizona Medicaid claims data from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2010 were used for this analysis. Subjects who were aged ≥65 years and were continuously enrolled in any Arizona Medicaid health plans (eligible to patients with low income) for ≥12 months between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2009 were considered eligible for inclusion in the study cohort. In addition to meeting the aforementioned criteria, incident and prevalent cases must have had epilepsy-related healthcare claims. Furthermore, incident cases were required to have a 1-year "clean" period immediately preceding the index date. Negative binomial and logistic regression models were used to assess the factors associated with epilepsy incidence and prevalence. Results The estimated epilepsy incidence and prevalence for this population in 2009 were 7.9 and 19.3 per 1,000 person-years, respectively. The incidence and prevalence rates were significantly higher for patients with comorbid conditions that were potential risk factors for epilepsy and were of younger age than for their non-comorbid and older counterparts (p<0.05). The prevalence rates were significantly higher for non-Hispanic Blacks and male beneficiaries than for non-Hispanic Whites and female beneficiaries, respectively (p<0.05). Conclusions This patient population had higher epilepsy incidence and prevalence compared with the general US population. These differences may be at least in part attributable to their low socioeconomic status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Derek H Tang
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, The University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| | - Daniel C Malone
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, The University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Terri L Warholak
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, The University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Jenny Chong
- Department of Neurology, The University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Edward P Armstrong
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, The University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Marion K Slack
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, The University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Chiu Hsieh Hsu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Arizona College of Public Health, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - David M Labiner
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, The University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, AZ, USA.; Department of Neurology, The University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Helmers SL, Thurman DJ, Durgin TL, Pai AK, Faught E. Descriptive epidemiology of epilepsy in the U.S. population: A different approach. Epilepsia 2015; 56:942-8. [PMID: 25921003 DOI: 10.1111/epi.13001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determine prevalence and incidence of epilepsy within two health insurance claims databases representing large sectors of the U.S. METHODS A retrospective observational analysis using Commercial Claims and Medicare (CC&M) Supplemental and Medicaid insurance claims data between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2011. Over 20 million continuously enrolled lives of all ages were included. Our definition of a prevalent case of epilepsy was based on International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification-coded diagnoses of epilepsy or seizures and evidence of prescribed antiepileptic drugs. Incident cases were identified among prevalent cases continuously enrolled for ≥ 2 years before the year of incidence determination with no epilepsy, seizure diagnoses, or antiepileptic drug prescriptions recorded. RESULTS During 2010 and 2011, overall age-adjusted prevalence estimate, combining weighted estimates from all datasets, was 8.5 cases of epilepsy/1,000 population. With evaluation of CC&M and Medicaid data separately, age-adjusted prevalence estimates were 5.0 and 34.3/1,000 population, respectively, for the same period. The overall age-adjusted incidence estimate for 2011, combining weighted estimates from all datasets, was 79.1/100,000 population. Age-adjusted incidence estimates from CC&M and Medicaid data were 64.5 and 182.7/100,000 enrollees, respectively. Incidence data should be interpreted with caution due to possible misclassification of some prevalent cases. SIGNIFICANCE The large number of patients identified as having epilepsy is statistically robust and provides a credible estimate of the prevalence of epilepsy. Our study draws from multiple U.S. population sectors, making it reasonably representative of the U.S.-insured population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra L Helmers
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A
| | - David J Thurman
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A
| | | | - Akshatha Kalsanka Pai
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A
| | - Edward Faught
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Banta JE, Addison A, Beeson WL. Spatial patterns of epilepsy-related emergency department visits in california. J Public Health Res 2015; 4:441. [PMID: 25918697 PMCID: PMC4407042 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2015.441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Socio-demographic factors are associated with increased emergency department (ED) use among patients with epilepsy. However, there has been limited spatial analysis of such visits. Design and methods California ED visit at the patient ZIP Code level were examined using Kulldorf’s spatial scan statistic to identify clusters of increased risk for epilepsy-related visits. Logistic regression was used to examine the relative importance of patient socio-demographics, Census-based and hospital measures. Results During 2009-2011 there were 29,715,009 ED visits at 330 hospitals, of which 139,235 (0.5%) had epilepsy (International Classification of Disease-9 345.xx) as the primary diagnosis. Three large urban clusters of high epilepsy-related ED visits were centred in the cities of Los Angeles, Oakland and Stockton and a large rural cluster centred in Kern County. No consistent pattern by age, race/ethnicity, household structure, and income was observed among all clusters. Regression found only the Los Angeles cluster significant after adjusting for other measures. Conclusions Geospatial analysis within a large and geographically diverse region identified a cluster within its most populous city having an increased risk of ED visits for epilepsy independent of selected socio-demographic and hospital measures. Additional research is necessary to determine whether elevated rates of ED visits represent increased prevalence of epilepsy or an inequitable system of epilepsy care. Significance for public health There have been few spatial analyses regarding treatment for epilepsy. This paper significantly expands upon previous work by simultaneously considering multiple urban centres and sparsely populated agricultural and desert/mountain areas in a large state. Furthermore, most epilepsy studies involve one system of care or funding source (such as Department of Veterans Affairs, Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance plans). This paper considers all funding sources at community-based hospitals. Patient socio-demographics, area-based summaries of socio-demographics, and basic hospital characteristics explain most of the observed spatial variation in rates of emergency department (ED) visits related to epilepsy. However, preliminary spatial analysis demonstrated that an area within downtown Los Angeles did have a higher rate of epilepsy-related visits compared to the rest of the state. A more comprehensive surveillance approach with ED visit data could be readily applied to other large geographic areas and be useful both for on-going monitoring and public health intervention
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jim E Banta
- School of Public Health, Loma Linda University , CA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Perceptions and experiences of epilepsy among patients from black ethnic groups in South London. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2014; 16:450-60. [DOI: 10.1017/s1463423614000437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveThe National Institute of Clinical Excellence suggested black ethnic minorities with epilepsy have different cultural, communicative and health-care needs. However, little is known about these despite increasing migration of black African and Caribbean people to Europe. This study aims to explore perceptions and experiences of epilepsy among black African and Caribbean people in South London.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were undertaken with 11 participants, to examine their beliefs and perceptions of living with epilepsy. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, codes generated and thematic analysis undertaken.ResultsAfrican participants described supernatural causes for epilepsy and experienced considerable stigma whereas Caribbean participants described epilepsy as a ‘normal illness’. However, both African and Caribbean participants experienced social restrictions arising from their epilepsy.ConclusionsThe findings of higher levels of perceived stigma and social restriction seen in African participants may be a continuation of beliefs reported in participants’ country of origin. There is also evidence that views regarding epilepsy transition through generations vary depending on place of birth.Practical ImplicationsHealth-care professionals need to be aware of and engage with the particular beliefs and concerns of black African and Caribbean people to achieve equity in health outcomes.
Collapse
|
33
|
Elliott JO, Richardson VE. The biopsychosocial model and quality of life in persons with active epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2014; 41:55-65. [PMID: 25305434 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite a long recognized need in the field of the importance of the psychological and social factors in persons with epilepsy (PWE), the medical community has continued to focus primarily on seizures and their treatment (the biological-biomedical model). From the biopsychosocial perspective, a person's lived experience needs to be incorporated into the understanding of quality of life. While the biopsychosocial model has gained prominence over the years, it has not been studied much in epilepsy. METHODS The study sample included 1720 PWE from the 2003 and the 2005 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS). Data were analyzed using set correlation, as it allows for the examination of the relative contribution of sets of independent variables (biological, psychological, and social domains) and a set of dependent variables (quality of life) of interest, defined as self-rated health status, self-rated mental health status, and life satisfaction. RESULTS Results provide strong evidence that the full biopsychosocial model explained a significantly larger amount of variance in quality of life (R(2) = 55.0%) compared with the biological-biomedical model alone (R(2) = 24.8%). When the individual domains of the biopsychosocial model were controlled for, the psychological (R(2) = 24.6%) and social (R(2) = 18.5%) domains still explained a greater amount of the variance in quality of life compared with the biological-biomedical model (R(2) = 14.3%). CONCLUSIONS While seizure freedom will continue to be an important treatment goal in epilepsy, the psychological and social domains are an important consideration for both interventional programs and clinical research designed to improve quality of life in PWE. Better integration of social workers and psychologists into routine care may help address these disparities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John O Elliott
- OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, 3535 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43214, USA; The Ohio State University, College of Social Work, Stillman Hall, 1947 College Road, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Virginia E Richardson
- The Ohio State University, College of Social Work, Stillman Hall, 1947 College Road, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pan C, Deroche CB, Mann JR, McDermott S, Hardin JW. Is prepregnancy obesity associated with risk of cerebral palsy and epilepsy in children? J Child Neurol 2014; 29:NP196-201. [PMID: 24334343 DOI: 10.1177/0883073813510971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a retrospective cohort study to investigate the association between prepregnancy obesity in women and risk of cerebral palsy and epilepsy in their children using data from the South Carolina Medicaid program. The cohort included 83,901 maternal-child pairs; 100 cases of cerebral palsy were initially identified, followed by 53 cases that had at least 2 cerebral palsy diagnoses. For confirmed epilepsy, diagnosed on at least 5 occasions or by more than 1 provider, 83,472 observations were included with 338 cases. There was no association between maternal body mass index and risk of childhood epilepsy. A significant association between increasing maternal body mass index and any diagnosis of cerebral palsy was found, and morbid obesity was associated with increased risk of any and confirmed cerebral palsy. In conclusion, there appears to be an association of maternal body mass index with cerebral palsy, but there is no evidence to support an association with epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Chelsea B Deroche
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Joshua R Mann
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Suzanne McDermott
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - James W Hardin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Khan RB, Hudson MM, Ledet DS, Morris EB, Pui CH, Howard SC, Krull KR, Hinds PS, Crom D, Browne E, Zhu L, Rai S, Srivastava D, Ness KK. Neurologic morbidity and quality of life in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a prospective cross-sectional study. J Cancer Surviv 2014; 8:688-96. [PMID: 25008582 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-014-0375-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is treated with potentially neurotoxic drugs and neurologic complications in long-term survivors are inadequately studied. This study investigated neurologic morbidity and its effect on quality of life in long-term survivors of childhood ALL. METHODS Prospective, single institution, cross-sectional, institutional review board-approved study of long-term ALL survivors. Participants were recruited from institutional clinics. Participants answered an investigator-administered questionnaire followed by evaluation by a neurologist. Quality of life (QOL) was also assessed. RESULTS Of the 162 participants recruited over a 3-year period, 83.3% reported at least one neurologic symptom of interest, 16.7% had single symptom, 11.1% had two symptoms, and 55.6% had three or more symptoms. Symptoms were mild and disability was low in the majority of participants with neurologic symptoms. Median age at ALL diagnosis was 3.9 years (0.4-18.6), median age at study enrollment was 15.7 years (6.9-28.9), and median time from completion of ALL therapy was 7.4 years (1.9-20.3). On multivariable analyses, female sex correlated with presence of dizziness, urinary incontinence, constipation, and neuropathy; use of ≥10 doses of triple intrathecal chemotherapy correlated with urinary incontinence, back pain, and neuropathy; cranial radiation with ataxia; history of ALL relapse with fatigue; and CNS leukemia at diagnosis with seizures. Decline in mental QOL was associated with migraine and tension type headaches, while physical QOL was impaired by presence of dizziness and falls. Overall, good QOL and physical function was maintained by a majority of participants. CONCLUSIONS Neurologic symptoms were present in 83% long-term ALL survivors. Symptoms related morbidity and QOL impairment is low in majority of survivors. Female sex, ≥10 doses of intrathecal chemotherapy, and history of ALL relapse predispose to impaired QOL. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS This study will educate survivors and their care providers regarding cancer or treatment-related neurologic symptoms and morbidity. This study will help them understand factors contributing to impaired QOL when present.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raja B Khan
- Division of Neurology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Mail stop 220, Memphis, TN, 38015, USA,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Bell GS, Neligan A, Sander JW. An unknown quantity-The worldwide prevalence of epilepsy. Epilepsia 2014; 55:958-62. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gail S. Bell
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre; UCL Institute of Neurology; London United Kingdom
- Epilepsy Society; Chalfont St Peter United Kingdom
| | - Aidan Neligan
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre; UCL Institute of Neurology; London United Kingdom
| | - Josemir W. Sander
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre; UCL Institute of Neurology; London United Kingdom
- Epilepsy Society; Chalfont St Peter United Kingdom
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN); Heemstede The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Ablah E, Hesdorffer DC, Liu Y, Paschal AM, Hawley S, Thurman D, Hauser WA. Prevalence of epilepsy in rural Kansas. Epilepsy Res 2014; 108:792-801. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2014.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Revised: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
38
|
Sim Y, Nokes B, Byreddy S, Chong J, Coull BM, Labiner DM. Healthcare utilization of patients with epilepsy in Yuma County, Arizona: do disparities exist? Epilepsy Behav 2014; 31:307-11. [PMID: 24210458 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2013.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the disparities in healthcare utilization and costs between Hispanic and non-Hispanic patients with seizures or epilepsy. We reviewed the insurance status and healthcare resource utilization data from 2005 to 2008 for all patients with seizures and epilepsy seen at the Yuma Regional Medical Center (YRMC). Charges for medical services provided to Hispanic patients with epilepsy between the ages of 18 and 49 were significantly less than those for non-Hispanic patients with epilepsy (Hispanic: $3167.63 versus non-Hispanic: $5154.36, P<0.001). Taking into account the differences in insurance status, setting of care, and total number of procedures, we still saw a significant difference in charges between the two groups at the outpatient settings. These data differ from currently available data on national and Eastern US Hispanic patients with epilepsy, suggesting that patients in this border community are somehow different from Hispanics elsewhere in the US.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeeck Sim
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Brandon Nokes
- College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Seenu Byreddy
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Jenny Chong
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Bruce M Coull
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - David M Labiner
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Schiltz NK, Koroukian SM, Singer ME, Love TE, Kaiboriboon K. Disparities in access to specialized epilepsy care. Epilepsy Res 2013; 107:172-80. [PMID: 24008077 PMCID: PMC3818489 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2013.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2013] [Revised: 07/15/2013] [Accepted: 08/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the impact of individual and community characteristics on access to specialized epilepsy care. METHODS This retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed data from the California State Inpatient Sample, the State Ambulatory Surgery Database, and the State Emergency Department Database, that were linked with the 2009 Area Resource File and the location of the National Association of Epilepsy Center's epilepsy centers. The receipt of video-EEG monitoring was measured and used to indicate access to specialized epilepsy care in subjects with persistent seizures, identified as those who had frequent seizure-related hospital admissions and/or ER visits. A hierarchical logistic regression model was employed to assess barriers to high quality care at both individual and contextual levels. RESULTS Among 115,632 persons with persistent seizures, individuals who routinely received care in an area where epilepsy centers were located were more likely to have access to specialized epilepsy care (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.20, 2.72). Interestingly, the availability of epilepsy centers did not influence access to specialized epilepsy care in people who had private insurance. In contrast, uninsured individuals and those with public insurance programs including Medicaid and Medicare had significant gaps in access to specialized epilepsy care. Other individual characteristics such as age, race/ethnicity, and the presence of comorbid conditions were also associated with disparities in access to specialized care in PWE. CONCLUSION Both individual and community characteristics play substantial roles in access to high quality epilepsy care. Policy interventions that incorporate strategies to address disparities at both levels are necessary to improve access to specialized care for PWE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas K. Schiltz
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Siran M. Koroukian
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Mendel E. Singer
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Thomas E. Love
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
- Department of Medicine, CWRU at MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
- Center for Health Care Research and Policy, CWRU at MetroHealth Medical Center
| | - Kitti Kaiboriboon
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Hesdorffer DC, Begley CE. Surveillance of epilepsy and prevention of epilepsy and its sequelae: lessons from the Institute of Medicine report. Curr Opin Neurol 2013; 26:168-73. [PMID: 23406912 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0b013e32835ef2c7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The Institute of Medicine's report, Epilepsy across the Spectrum: Promoting Health and Understanding contains two recommendations for increased epilepsy surveillance and one recommendation on prevention in epilepsy. Evidence supporting these recommendations and the information that can be gained from them is reviewed. RECENT FINDINGS Existing epilepsy surveillance data are inadequate to address factors such as seizure type, syndrome, socioeconomic status, and race/ethnicity in large representative populations. Ongoing surveillance is needed with follow-up of people with epilepsy for adverse epilepsy outcomes so that interventions to prevent these outcomes can be formulated. Substantial barriers to receiving appropriate medical care exist for minorities and the uninsured with epilepsy; more information on these differences and their causes is needed. Lack of standardized study methods and data sources results in differences in medical service costs, care and treatments, and limited information on cost-effectiveness of specific healthcare services for epilepsy. SUMMARY Future epilepsy surveillance should track incidence and prevalence over time, access to epilepsy care, direct and indirect costs, and the cost-effectiveness of treatment. Prevention efforts to decrease the occurrence of epilepsy and improve access and effectiveness of care will ameliorate adverse outcomes in epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dale C Hesdorffer
- Department of Epidemiology, Gertrude H Sergievsky Center, Columbia University, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Chong J, Hesdorffer DC, Thurman DJ, Lopez D, Harris RB, Hauser WA, Labiner ET, Velarde A, Labiner DM. The prevalence of epilepsy along the Arizona–Mexico border. Epilepsy Res 2013; 105:206-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2012.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Revised: 12/11/2012] [Accepted: 12/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
42
|
Chui J, Manninen P, Valiante T, Venkatraghavan L. The anesthetic considerations of intraoperative electrocorticography during epilepsy surgery. Anesth Analg 2013; 117:479-86. [PMID: 23780418 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0b013e318297390c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy surgery is a well-established therapeutic intervention for patients with medically refractory seizures. Success of epilepsy surgery depends on the accurate localization and complete removal of the epileptogenic zone. Despite the advances in presurgical localization modalities, electrocorticography is still used in approximately 60% to 70% of the epilepsy centers in North America to guide surgical resection of the epileptogenic lesion and to assess for completeness of surgery. In this review, we discuss the principles and intraoperative use of electrocorticography, the effect of anesthetic drugs on electrocorticography, and the use of pharmacoactivation for intraoperative localization of epileptogenic zone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Chui
- Department of Anesthesia, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 399, Bathurst St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 2S8
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Kaiboriboon K, Bakaki PM, Lhatoo SD, Koroukian S. Incidence and prevalence of treated epilepsy among poor health and low-income Americans. Neurology 2013; 80:1942-9. [PMID: 23616158 PMCID: PMC3716344 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0b013e318293e1b4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the incidence and prevalence of treated epilepsy in an adult Medicaid population. METHODS We performed a retrospective, dynamic cohort analysis using Ohio Medicaid claims data between 1992 and 2006. Individuals aged 18-64 years were identified as prevalent cases if they had ≥2 claims of epilepsy (ICD-9-CM: 345.xx) or ≥3 claims of convulsion (ICD-9-CM: 780.3 or 780.39) and ≥2 claims of antiepileptic drugs. Incident cases were required to have no epilepsy or convulsion claims for ≥5 years before epilepsy diagnosis. Subjects were determined as having preexisting disability and/or comorbid conditions, including brain tumor, depression, developmental disorders, migraine, schizophrenia, stroke, and traumatic brain injury, when at least one of these conditions occurred before epilepsy onset. RESULTS There were 9,056 prevalent cases of treated epilepsy in 1992-2006 and 1,608 incident cases in 1997-2006. The prevalence was 13.2/1,000 (95% confidence interval, 13.0-13.5/1,000). The incidence was 362/100,000 person-years (95% confidence interval, 344-379/100,000 person-years). The incidence and prevalence were significantly higher in men, in older people, in blacks, and in people with preexisting disability and/or comorbid conditions. The most common preexisting conditions in epilepsy subjects were depression, developmental disorders, and stroke, whereas people with brain tumor, traumatic brain injury, and stroke had the higher risk of developing epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS The Medicaid population has a high incidence and prevalence of epilepsy, in an order of magnitude greater than that reported in the US general population. This indigent population carries a disproportionate amount of the epilepsy burden and deserves more attention for its health care needs and support services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kitti Kaiboriboon
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, OH, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
El-Tallawy HN, Farghaly WM, Shehata GA, Abdel-Hakeem NM, Rageh TA, Abo-Elftoh NA, Hegazy A, Badry R. Epidemiology of epilepsy in New Valley Governorate, Al Kharga District, Egypt. Epilepsy Res 2013; 104:167-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2012.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Revised: 08/20/2012] [Accepted: 08/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
45
|
A community based epidemiological study of epilepsy in Assiut Governorate/Egypt. Epilepsy Res 2013; 103:294-302. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2012.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Revised: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 08/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
46
|
Kroner BL, Fahimi M, Kenyon A, Thurman DJ, Gaillard WD. Racial and socioeconomic disparities in epilepsy in the District of Columbia. Epilepsy Res 2013; 103:279-87. [PMID: 22858309 PMCID: PMC4608437 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2012.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 05/13/2012] [Accepted: 07/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We investigated social and demographic factors as they relate to prevalence and incidence of epilepsy in Washington, DC, a culturally diverse area. Probability-based sampling was used to select 20,000 households to complete a mailed epilepsy screening survey on all household members. Screened individuals with a history of epilepsy were sent a detailed case survey about seizures and treatment. Prevalence and incidence of epilepsy were estimated using weighted data. Lifetime prevalence was 1.53% overall; 0.77% in Whites, 2.13% in Blacks, and 3.4% in those with less than a high school diploma. Prevalence of active epilepsy was 0.79% and followed similar subgroup comparisons as lifetime prevalence. Age-adjusted lifetime and active epilepsy from multivariate analyses demonstrated significantly higher rates for Blacks compared to Whites and for those not completing high school compared to those that attended graduate school. The incidence of epilepsy was 71 per 100,000 persons. Adults with active epilepsy were significantly less likely to live alone than those without epilepsy. Residents of DC for <4 years had the lowest prevalence and incidence of all subgroups indicating a possible healthy mover effect. This is the first study to provide estimates and profiles of the epilepsy population in DC which can help better target resources to improve the health and outcomes of people with epilepsy and their families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara L Kroner
- RTI International, 6110 Executive Blvd, Rockville, MD 20852, United States.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Hesdorffer DC, Beck V, Begley CE, Bishop ML, Cushner-Weinstein S, Holmes GL, Shafer PO, Sirven JI, Austin JK. Research implications of the Institute of Medicine Report, Epilepsy Across the Spectrum: Promoting Health and Understanding. Epilepsia 2013; 54:207-16. [PMID: 23294462 PMCID: PMC3566357 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In March 2012 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released the report, Epilepsy Across The Spectrum: Promoting Health and Understanding. This report examined the public health dimensions of the epilepsies with a focus on the following four areas: public health surveillance and data collection and integration; population and public health research; health policy, health care, and human services; and education for providers, people with epilepsy and their families, and the public. The report provided recommendations and research priorities for future work in the field of epilepsy that relate to increasing the power of data on epilepsy; prevention of epilepsy; improving health care for people with epilepsy; improving health professional education about epilepsy; improving quality of life for people with epilepsy; improving education about epilepsy for people with epilepsy and families; and raising public awareness about epilepsy. For this article, the authors selected one research priority from each of the major chapter themes in the IOM report: expanding and improving the quality of epidemiologic surveillance in epilepsy; developing improved interventions for people with epilepsy and depression; expanding early identification/screening for learning impairments in children with epilepsy; evaluating and promoting effective innovative teaching strategies; accelerating research on the identification of risk factors and interventions that increase employment and improve quality of life for people with epilepsy and their families; assessing the information needs of people with epilepsy and their families associated with epilepsy-related risks, specifically sudden unexpected death in epilepsy; and developing and conducting surveys to capture trends in knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and beliefs about epilepsy over time and in specific population subgroups. For each research priority selected, examples of research are provided that will advance the field of epilepsy and improve the lives of people with epilepsy. The IOM report has many other research priorities for researchers to consider developing to advance the field of epilepsy and better the lives of people with epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dale C Hesdorffer
- GH Sergievksky Center, Columbia University, New York, New York 10024, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ngugi AK, Bottomley C, Chengo E, Kombe MZ, Kazungu M, Bauni E, Mbuba CK, Kleinschmidt I, Newton CR. The validation of a three-stage screening methodology for detecting active convulsive epilepsy in population-based studies in health and demographic surveillance systems. Emerg Themes Epidemiol 2012; 9:8. [PMID: 23171721 PMCID: PMC3549939 DOI: 10.1186/1742-7622-9-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There are few studies on the epidemiology of epilepsy in large populations in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMIC). Most studies in these regions use two-stage population-based screening surveys, which are time-consuming and costly to implement in large populations required to generate accurate estimates. We examined the sensitivity and specificity of a three-stage cross-sectional screening methodology in detecting active convulsive epilepsy (ACE), which can be embedded within on-going census of demographic surveillance systems. We validated a three-stage cross-sectional screening methodology on a randomly selected sample of participants of a three-stage prevalence survey of epilepsy. Diagnosis of ACE by an experienced clinician was used as ‘gold standard’. We further compared the expenditure of this method with the standard two-stage methodology. Results We screened 4442 subjects in the validation and identified 35 cases of ACE. Of these, 18 were identified as false negatives, most of whom (15/18) were missed in the first stage and a few (3/18) in the second stage of the three-stage screening. Overall, this methodology had a sensitivity of 48.6% and a specificity of 100%. It was 37% cheaper than a two-stage survey. Conclusion This was the first study to evaluate the performance of a multi-stage screening methodology used to detect epilepsy in demographic surveillance sites. This method had poor sensitivity attributed mainly to stigma-related non-response in the first stage. This method needs to take into consideration the poor sensitivity and the savings in expenditure and time as well as validation in target populations. Our findings suggest the need for continued efforts to develop and improve case-ascertainment methods in population-based epidemiological studies of epilepsy in LMIC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony K Ngugi
- The Centre for Geographic Medicine Research - Coast, KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Noble AJ, Goldstein LH, Seed P, Glucksman E, Ridsdale L. Characteristics of people with epilepsy who attend emergency departments: Prospective study of metropolitan hospital attendees. Epilepsia 2012; 53:1820-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2012.03586.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
50
|
Accounting for comorbidity in assessing the burden of epilepsy among US adults: results from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R). Mol Psychiatry 2012; 17:748-58. [PMID: 21577213 PMCID: PMC3165095 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2011.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Although epilepsy is associated with substantial role impairment, it is also highly comorbid with other physical and mental disorders, making unclear the extent to which impairments associated with epilepsy are actually due to comorbidities. This issue was explored in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R), a nationally representative household survey of 5692 US adults. Medically recognized epilepsy was ascertained with self-report, comorbid physical disorders with a chronic conditions checklist, and comorbid DSM-IV mental disorders with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Lifetime epilepsy prevalence was estimated at 1.8%. Epilepsy was comorbid with numerous neurological and general medical conditions and with a sporadic cluster of mental comorbidities (panic, PTSD, conduct disorder and substance use disorders). Although comorbid disorders explain part of the significant gross associations of epilepsy with impairment, epilepsy remains significantly associated with work disability, cognitive impairment and days of role impairment after controlling comorbidities. The net association of epilepsy with days of role impairment after controlling for comorbidities is equivalent to an annualized 89.4 million excess role impairment days among US adults with epilepsy, arguing that role impairment is a major component of the societal costs of epilepsy per se rather than merely due to disorders comorbid with epilepsy. This estimated burden is likely conservative as some parts of the effects of epilepsy are presumably mediated by secondary comorbid disorders.
Collapse
|