Around 1.8% of adults aged 18 years or older have epilepsy or seizure disorder in America, according to CDC statistics. Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain and the seizures caused are not manifesting through temporary underlying medical condition like high fever. It is a serious problem that can also lead to autism.
A study reported at spectrum presented a data of 690,000 people in Sweden that quantifies the risk in the "opposite direction". Epilepsy cases are at eight times the risk of autism. The risk is even higher within the bloodline. Study says that, "Among some individuals with epilepsy and their relatives, a second genetic 'hit' or environmental trigger may tip the balance toward autism."
With the average annual incidence of epilepsy in the U. S., which is estimated at 150,000 or 48 for every 100,000 people, it is important to address also the possibility of autism linked to these cases. CDC presents in their report that the total indirect and direct cost of epilepsy in the U.S. is estimated to be $15.5 billion every year. The number is estimated to swell in the following years.
The Institute of Medicine has important recommendations to solve the problem with epilepsy that can lead to autism. These are the following:
- Validate and Implement Standard Definitions and Criteria for Epilepsy Case Ascertainment, Health Care and Community, Services Use and Costs, and Quality-of-Life Measurement
- Continue and Expand Collaborative Surveillance and Data Collection Efforts
- Develop and Evaluate Prevention Efforts for Epilepsy and Its Consequences
- Improve the Early Identification of Epilepsy and Its Comorbid Health Conditions
- Develop and Implement a National Quality Measurement and Improvement Strategy for Epilepsy Care
- Establish Accreditation of Epilepsy Centers and an Epilepsy Care Network
- Improve Health Professional Education About the Epilepsies
- Improve the Delivery and Coordination of Community Services
- Improve and Expand Educational Opportunities for People with Epilepsy and Their Families
- Inform Media to Improve Awareness and Eliminate Stigma
- Coordinate Public Awareness Efforts
- Continue and Expand Vision 20-20 Working Groups and Collaborative Partnerships
- Engage in Education, Dissemination, and Advocacy for Improved Epilepsy Care and Services
Families with members suffering from epilepsy should be treated with compassion. They need understanding as these values are also what they need to impart to the family member who has epilepsy.
