Wang, M;
Ding, D;
Zhu, G;
Zhang, Q;
Wang, T;
Chen, Y;
Wang, W;
... Sander, JW; + view all
(2019)
Prevalence of epilepsy in rural China: a decreasing trend over 12 years.
[Letter].
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry
, 90
(11)
pp. 1289-1291.
10.1136/jnnp-2018-320131.
Preview |
Text
clean manuscript-first submission for jnnp.pdf - Accepted Version Download (1MB) | Preview |
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the prevalence of epilepsy and to assess secular trends in the life-time prevalence of epilepsy in rural China over a 12-year period. Methods In 2000-2002 and in 2012-2013, two independent cross-sectional epidemiological surveys, using an identical protocol, were conducted in rural areas in Shanghai, Shanxi Province, and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. The survey procedure included two stages: screening and ascertaining epilepsy cases in the target population. The initial screening was conducted by trained rural physicians and the diagnosis was confirmed or rejected by neurologists in the second stage. The age structure of the Chinese rural population in 2012 was used for standardization. Results The 2000-2002 survey included 32,680 people and the standardized life-time prevalence was 6.79‰ (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.96-7.74‰). In 2012-2013, in a population of 16,873, the standardized life-time prevalence rate was 3.97‰ (95%CI, 3.13-5.04‰). The overall prevalence decreased by 41% over 12 years (P<0.001). The decreasing trend of life-time prevalence was found in each site and nearly all agespecific groups. Conclusions Life-time prevalence of epilepsy seems to have significantly decreased in rural China over a 12-year period. We hypothesize that it may be attributed to decreased incidence and increased premature mortality.
Archive Staff Only
 |
View Item |
