SUDEP

SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy)

Most people with epilepsy live a full and healthy life, however they should be aware that epilepsy can be fatal.Some people with epilepsy may lose their lives from accidents or the underlying cause of their condition, such as tumors or genetic syndromes.But the leading epilepsy-related cause of death is believed to be Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy, also known as SUDEP. This frightening reality is too often hidden or ignored because the topic is difficult to discuss and the cause is unknown.

We encourage you to read these Frequently Asked Questions for yourself to learn more about SUDEP and the steps you can take to reduce your or your loved one's risk.We also encourage everyone with epilepsy to talk to the physician treating their seizures about SUDEP to understand their risk and ensure they are taking the necessary steps to reduce their risk.While the cause of SUDEP may be unknown, there are opportunities to reduce risk, including following every measure available to control seizures.

To ensure SUDEP gets the public awareness and research attention it deserves, the Epilepsy Foundation has launched the SUDEP Institute, a collaboration among leading epilepsy organizations and experts, including the Epilepsy Foundation, CURE, SUDEP Aware, Danny Did Foundation and the American Epilepsy Society.The mission of the SUDEP Institute is to prevent SUDEP and support people learning about and confronting SUDEP. Learn more with us.