Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Pediatric Epilepsy in Low-Income Countries

Abstract

Objective: To describe the epidemiology, trends, and risk factors of pediatric epilepsy with a specific interest in infection-related and perinatal factors in low income countries.

Study Design: A Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, Peoples university of Medical Health Sciences NawabShah from from January 2023 to July 2023.

Methods: This Cross-sectional Study was carried out with 150 pediatric epilepsy patients in a LIC context. Information on clinical features, seized predictors, and seizure prognosis was obtained by record review and caregiver interviews. Data was analyzed using chi-square tests and t-tests for relations at the value of p<0.05.

Results: About 40% of the 150 patients had a record of previous infection such as cerebral malaria, 30% of the patients had perinatal related complications and 20% of patients with epilepsy related to malnutrition. The mean age at onset, or the point at which the client first sought professional interventions, was 4.5 years (SD = 2.1). Statistically significant correlations were determined between the episodes of infections and early onset epilepsy (Chi-square = 7.61 at p = 0.03). Acute cases had higher episodes of seizure compared to chronic cases and the groups with malnutrition related illnesses (p = 0.04).

Conclusion: In this paper the leading factors contributing to pediatric epilepsy in low income countries include infections, birth complications, and malnutrition. Early diagnosis and intervention services especially among the high risk-potential clients are important. Strengthening of health facilities is needed to combat these and decrease the impact of epilepsy in the low income groups.