THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF EPILEPSY - PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

Much has been learned from epidemiologic studies about the frequency, causes, natural history, and prognosis of epilepsy and other seizure d isorders. This knowledge has resulted in significant changes in the cl inical management of individuals who have seizures and epilepsy. Recen t changes in the known causal factors and diagnostic technologic advan ces, among other factors, will affect the epidemiology and prognosis o f epilepsy. Continued epidemiologic monitoring of this common neurolog ic condition is necessary to ensure an accurate understanding of the c urrent forms of the disorder.