Epidemiology
The epidemiology of childhood seizures usually includes all types of seizures and syndromes; hence, it is difficult to quantify data specifically for generalized seizures. Generalized seizures are overall more common than focal seizures, although one study found that generalized epilepsies and syndromes were more prevalent in children 0-5 years of age, while focal seizures were more prevalent in older children.[4][5]
The incidence of epilepsy depends on age. Incidence is highest in the first year of life, with reported values of between 81 and 130 per 100,000 per year.[4] Between around 1 and 10 years of age the reported incidence is 40 to 60 per 100,000 per year, with a lower incidence again in adolescence (20 to 25 per 100,000 per year; similar to levels among adults in developed countries).[4] Incidence has not been reported to differ between boys and girls.[4]
Several studies have estimated the prevalence of epilepsy in children: reported values include 3.2 to 5.1 per 1000 in Europe, with values depending on age and country (2005 study); 4.71 per 1000 in Oklahoma (1989); 6.3 per 1000 in the US (2012); and 5.3 per 1000 in Canada (2011). Reported prevalence is generally higher in medium- and low-income countries (especially in rural areas), and among deprived populations in high-income countries.[4]
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