Childhood Epilepsy Tied to Lower Education Levels
A long-term Danish study of over one million children found that those diagnosed with epilepsy in childhood tend to have lower educational attainment and poorer exam grades. The researchers suggest that the impact is likely cumulative and multifactorial, highlighting the need for proactive support for affected students.
Why it matters
Identifying the educational risks associated with childhood epilepsy can help educators and healthcare providers implement better support systems for these students.
Childhood epilepsy is linked to significantly poorer exam grades and long term educational attainment, with the lowest levels of academic prowess among those whose neurological disorder started when they were very young, finds a large, long term Danish study, published online in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry.
While it's not clear if the condition directly impairs brain function to the extent that it compromises educational achievement, the mechanisms are likely to be multifactorial and cumulative, warranting proactive assessment and support for those affected, suggests a linked editorial commentary.
Up to 1% of children in high income countries have epilepsy, which may be accompanied by neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), cerebral palsy, and intellectual disability, note the researchers. These children may also find it difficult to focus and concentrate, they add.
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