Epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa

Pract Neurol. 2013 Feb;13(1):14-20. doi: 10.1136/practneurol-2012-000388.

Abstract

Over 10 million people in Africa have epilepsy of which most have no access to appropriate treatment. Epilepsy in Africa is different- the incidence is higher, and the causes and cultural attitudes towards it differ. This article examines the epidemiology, causes and treatment of epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa and looks at the challenges to improve access to treatment and potential solutions and the implications for neurologists in more developed countries.

MeSH terms

  • Africa South of the Sahara / epidemiology
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use
  • Bacterial Infections / complications
  • Bacterial Infections / epidemiology
  • Brain Diseases / complications
  • Brain Diseases / epidemiology
  • Epilepsy / epidemiology*
  • Epilepsy / etiology
  • Epilepsy / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Neurology*
  • Parasitic Diseases / complications
  • Parasitic Diseases / parasitology
  • Virus Diseases / complications
  • Virus Diseases / epidemiology

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants