UK Epilepsy Group Reports Survey Results Regarding Impact of Condition on Men

Special to EpilepsyUSA
Posted: January 25, 2006

Epilepsy Action, a United Kingdom-based focus group similar to the Epilepsy Foundation, conducted a survey last year that provided insight on how epilepsy affects the estimated 225,000 European males living with the disorder. According to their data, epilepsy is believed to greatly impact men’s relationships, parenting skills, sexual function, self-esteem, driving and employment.

The data stated the men surveyed most often felt the condition and its treatment resulted in relationship problems with partners (48.2 percent), family members (54.3 percent) and friends (49.2 percent). Approximately a quarter of those surveyed felt epilepsy affected their abilities to be good parents, while more than a third of the respondents felt sexual relationships were affected.

It is not unusual for people with epilepsy to feel distressed about the effects of the condition on quality of life. However, organizations like the Epilepsy Foundation are quick to remind those affected by the disorder that epilepsy should not be viewed as a barrier to success. Most people living with epilepsy are capable of living normal, happy and full lives.