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Epilepsy Foundation of South Carolina
Epilepsy Foundation of South CarolinaThe Burden of Epilepsy in the Palmetto State
IMPORTANT NOTICE: COMMUNITY FORUM, NOV. 14th
The Committee invites all persons with epilepsy and their family members to participate in this statewide videoconference on Wednesday, November 14, 2007, at 6:00 PM at your regional SC Vocational Rehabilitation Department facilities. It is important that this study committee have information for the people in South Carolina that struggle to receive services from various state and local agencies, so be sure to let your voice be heard. With the information gathered from this videoconference the committee will develop a plan for South Carolina and report their findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by July 2008. For more information on the forum please visit the Committee’s website at www.scepilepsyact168.com. At this website you can also find information about locations and committee members. If you are unable to attend, please fill out the survey at the Study Committee’s website. Epilepsy also has a profound economic impact. Annually, healthcare costs related to epilepsy are estimated at $15.5 billion* in the United States and approximately $220 million** in South Carolina. Epilepsy affects people of all ages and races and presents significant issues to those with the condition. Challenges in employment, financial costs, transportation, social interaction, and education are often encountered by those with epilepsy. Nearly 200,000 people in the U.S. develop epilepsy every year* (nearly 2800 in S.C.**). In about 70% of these cases the cause is not known. In cases where a cause can be identified, head trauma, prenatal disturbance of brain development, brain tumor, stroke, heredity, and certain infections of the brain are common causes. Most people with epilepsy can live relatively normal and productive lives, provided they obtain adequate treatment for their epilepsy. Many medications and other therapies have been developed in recent years to drastically improve the health status of those with epilepsy, though a cure for epilepsy is not available at the current time. Our Mission"To ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences and will prevent, control, and cure epilepsy through research, education, advocacy, and services." About UsThe Epilepsy Foundation of South Carolina is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, voluntary health agency and is a representative affiliate of the Epilepsy Foundation. We are dedicated to serving those with epilepsy and their families in South Carolina through its central office in Columbia and satellite offices in Greenville and Charleston. If you would like more information, please contact: Epilepsy Foundation of South Carolina *Based on US Census Bureau estimated 2005 US population of 295,000,000 |
Epilepsy is a significant health problem in the United States and in South Carolina. Epilepsy, also known as "seizure disorder," is a neurological condition characterized by recurring seizures. A seizure is a brief, temporary disturbance in the electrical activity of the brain. It is estimated that over 3 million Americans and between 55,000 to 65,000 South Carolinians have epilepsy. By age 75, 3% of the population will develop epilepsy, and one in every ten individuals will have a seizure in his or her lifetime.
The South Carolina Study Committee to Develop a Statewide Comprehensive Service Delivery System for Persons with Epilepsy established by the SC General Assembly and Governor Mark Sanford has scheduled it’s first community forum. This forum will be a videoconference that is open to the public. The goal of this videoconference is to gather information regarding services that people with epilepsy and their families need to enhance their quality of life.
