Increased prevalence of seizure disorders among prisoners
L. N. King and Q. D. Young
In an effort to determine the prevalence of seizure disorders among persons
confined to jails and prison, the prescription rates for anticonvulsant
medications in ten Illinois correctional institutions were surveyed. The
institutions housed 12,030 persons at the time of the survey. Analysis of
the results of the survey suggests a point prevalence of seizure disorders
of 1.9% among the Illinois prison and jail population. This estimated
prevalence of seizure disorders is approximately three times higher than
among middle-class nonprisoner populations on which previous epidemiologic
studies of epilepsy have been based. Special programs and resources for the
detection, treatment, and prevention of seizure disorders among prisoners
appear necessary. Provisions to ensure continuity of care after release
from incarceration are also needed.
