Introduction
The prevalence of epilepsy in people with an intellectual disability is higher than in the general population. The outlook for individuals with both epilepsy and intellectual disability depends on the presence of any associated conditions. There have been few epidemiological studies of the prevalence of epilepsy and associated problems within a representative adult intellectual disability population to inform the development of a policy.
Findings
- The prevalence of epilepsy was at least 26 times higher than in the general adult population
- There was no particular concentration of epilepsy in any gender, ethnic or residential subgroups.
- Morbidities specifically associated with epilepsy included low level of understanding, incontinence, difficulty walking, poor speech, lack of empathy.
- These problems make epilepsy care more difficult for people with an intellectual disability and suggest the need for a multidisciplinary skills
Reference
McGrother, C.W.; Bhaumik, S.; Thorp, C.F.; Hauck, A.; Brandford, D.; Watson, J.A.(2005). Epilepsy in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: Prevalence, Associations and Service Implications. Seizure. 15, 376-386.