Psychosocial aspects of epilepsy in Nigeria: a review

ABSTRACT

Background: Epilepsy is a chronic disorder marked by intermittent; often unpredictable seizures which may be embarrassing and disruptive to the normal activity of daily living. This review was undertaken to provide information / data on the prevalence; seizure types; treatment issues and psychosocial impact of epilepsy in Nigeria. Method: We searched the PUBMED database with emphasis on studies conducted in Nigeria using a combination of the following words epilepsy; seizure; convulsion; prevalence; epidemiology; psychiatric morbidity; social issues; quality of life; cognition; school performance; treatment issues and Nigeria. Result: 48 relevant studies that met the criteria were reviewed. The point prevalence of epilepsy varies from 5.3 to 37 per 1000 in Nigeria. Most studies showed a predominance of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Nigerian patients with epilepsy suffer social deprivation and discrimination in education; employment; housing; marital life as well as associated psychiatric morbidity. Conclusion: Epilepsy; a stigmatizing disorder in Nigeria; has a significant impact on the day to day functioning of those with the condition