How common is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a common condition.

The prevalence is 40 to 70 per thousand, that is, about 3% of the UK population will develop epilepsy. (However, in developing countries, the prevalence is more than 100 per thousand). A single seizure episode is not considered as epilepsy, however a significant percentage of individuals who experience their first ever seizure will have a second one, normally within 12 months. Most recurrent attacks occur within a month or two of the first.

Epilepsy can begin at any age, but the most common ages for onset are childhood, the teenage years, and old age.

In the UK a typical GP will be treating 10 people for epilepsy, diagnose one or two new cases each year and be caring for 15 – 25 people who have had seizures in the past but are currently not on any treatment.

Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) are normally effective in controlling the majority of seizures in 80% of cases, although a very small percentage of cases of epilepsy are refractory (that is, uncontrolled) by medical intervention.

Amended November 2008