National Epilepsy Awareness Month: Focus on Education and Support

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Epilepsy, which currently affects approximately 3 million persons in the United States, is characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Delayed recognition of these seizures and subsequent inadequate treatment increases the risk for additional seizures, brain injury, disability, decreased health-related quality of life, and death.

Although epilepsy can occur at any age, the condition primarily affects children and older adults. The number of cases among older adults is increasing as the US population ages. For people with epilepsy, everyday activities such as driving and working are often issues of concern and may require special considerations. Despite the difficulties of living with epilepsy, many people with this disorder lead full, productive lives.

The Epilepsy Foundation, in partnership with CDC, is continuing a national campaign to use public education and programs that foster community awareness to improve the health care and community support available to persons affected by epilepsy. The theme for the foundation's program through 2008 is "Not another moment lost to seizures." Campaign activities include school-based health-education programs, community workshops for diverse audiences, and training for older adults and their caregivers. In addition, the Epilepsy Foundation has developed pilot curricula for police and emergency response personnel to increase recognition and appropriate management of persons who are having seizures.

Additional Information

• Epilepsy

• The Epilepsy Foundation* or call 800-332-1000 (English)

• The Epilepsy Foundation* in Spanish or call 866-748-8008 (Spanish)