Epilepsy Drug Discovery Service

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by repeated seizures (> 24 h apart); by one seizure with a strong potential for recurrence (at least 60%) or diagnosis of an epilepsy syndrome. It affects people of all ages and results in social, behavioral, health, and economic consequences for the patients and their families. It is estimated that more than 50 million people worldwide are affected. Eighty percent of people with epilepsy live in low- to medium-income countries. The vast majority of the patients with epilepsy, with adequate treatment, can live normal life. However, some patients have serious comorbidities such as psychiatric disorders and mental retardation. Epilepsy is responsible for 0.3 percent of all deaths worldwide.

Impacts of Epilepsy

The impacts of epilepsy are far-reaching, not only for the individual living with the condition but also for their family and the wider society. For the person with epilepsy, the disease burden is not confined simply to the physical risks of seizures and the risks of treatment; it has a much broader impact through the stigma that is still attached to having the condition (Fig. 1). This stigma frequently results in social exclusion and isolation, as well as difficulties in accessing educational services and obtaining employment. Coupled with the neurological impairment underlying the condition, epilepsy is highly comorbid with other cognitive, physical, and psychiatric disorders, which often further limit patients' functional ability, educational employment prospects, and social participation.

Fig. 1 The impact of epilepsy on patients' lives. (Kerr, 2012)

A growing number of neuroscientists have participated in epilepsy-related studies and have launched various research projects worldwide. Creative Biolabs, as a leading supplier of a wide range of biological materials, has delivered nearly two decades of quality service to global clients. Our customized services are global, and if you are interested in learning about them and contact us please, we are honored to have an opportunity to further study your epilepsy-related studies.

References

1. Kerr, MP. The impact of epilepsy on patients' lives. Acta Neurol Scand Suppl. 2012, (194), 1-9.