The Epidemiology of Global Epilepsy

The International League Against Epilepsy defines epilepsy as at least 2 unprovoked seizures more than 24 hours apart. It is a wide-reaching and complex illness affecting more than 70 million people worldwide and can take on a variety of forms, patterns, and severities. Geographic differences in the illness are often related to its etiology. A host of endemic illnesses and parasitic infections can lead to epilepsy syndromes. Management varies by region due to the availability of diagnostic modalities and medications. Treatment gaps in epilepsy care often are related to social and cultural factors that must also be understood.