Payesh (Apr 2010)
Clinical and demographic characteristics and quality of life in patients with epilepsy
Abstract
Payesh2010; 9: 215-221Accepted for publication: 14 March 2010[EPub a head of print-25 May 2010] Objective(s): To assess the influence of different clinical and demographic variables on the quality of life (QOL) in patients with epilepsy in Iran.Methods: Seventy six patients with epilepsy in Sina neurology clinic within 6 months were included in this study.Quality of life was measured by the Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory (QOLIE-31) that was standardized for Iranian epileptic patients. Using multiple regression analysis, we determined the variables were associated with QOLIE-31 overall and subscale scores.Results: Seizure frequency, was found to be risk factor for QOLIE-31 overall and subscale scores. Seizure frequency was a strong predictor for Energy/Fatigue, Seizure Worry and Medication Effects. Age had significant association with social function score. Higher education years in patient and caregiver had an association with QOLIE-31 overall score.Conclusion: This study confirms that seizure frequency, the education and older age are strong predictors of QOL in patient s with epilepsy. Interventions focusing on reduce seizure frequency, and identification of factors that intervene with the patient's education is necessary for improving QOL in these patients.
