Prevalence and socioeconomic aspects of epilepsy in the Croatian county of Sibenik–Knin: Community-based survey

The aim of the survey was to estimate the prevalence rate of epilepsy, as well as seizure types, frequency, etiology, and comorbidity, by gender, age, and socioeconomic status among people with epilepsy in the Croatian county of Sibenik–Knin. The survey revealed that of 112,871 inhabitants, 1228 were identified as having active epilepsy. The crude prevalence rate for Sibenik–Knin County was 10.9 per 1000 inhabitants. Prevalence rates (per 1000) by age and gender were: 6.9 (ages 0–19); 10.6 (ages 20–59); 15.1 (ages 60+), 10.1 (females), and 11.7 (males). A significant number of subjects had different comorbid disorders. Although the literature suggests that Dalmatia is a region with a low prevalence of epilepsy, our results showed that Sibenik–Knin County has a higher prevalence of epilepsy than expected for European populations. The most common comorbid disorders, such as mental retardation, psychotic episodes, and substance addiction, highly influence socioeconomic status and quality of life.

Research highlights
► The prevalence rate and other characteristics of epilepsy were determined.
► County has a higher prevalence of epilepsy compared with Croatia, Europe, world.
► There is a need for medical and socioeconomic support.
► Comorbid disorders influence socioeconomic aspects of life.