Currently Funded Epidemiologic Research Projects

The CDC Epilepsy Program is currently supporting several studies that examine the epidemiology of epilepsy.

The Incidence and Prognosis of Epilepsy in Harlem, New York City

Columbia University

This project was funded through CDC’s Prevention Research Centers to assess factors that affect outcomes in a study of new-onset cases of epilepsy in the population of Harlem and Northern Manhattan, New York City. Outcomes will include seizure recurrence and mortality.

Studying Rare Epilepsies in New York City: Using Text Processing of Clinical Notes in Electronic Health Records to Improve Surveillance

Weill Medical College of Cornell University

The goal of this study is to apply text processing (a method to scan for words) in electronic health records from several medical centers in New York City to improve surveillance and epidemiology of rare epilepsies. Rare forms of epilepsy usually involve very difficult to control seizures in children. Researchers will describe the incidence, prevalence, comorbidities, mortality, and quality of care for individuals with rare epilepsies. The study findings will help centers identify rare epilepsies to support surveillance, research, quality improvement, care management, and referral of patients with rare epilepsies to advocacy organizations.

Risk Factors of Epilepsy Outcomes: Comorbidities in Populations with Epilepsy

Medical University of South Carolina

The goal of this study is to examine the prevalence and patterns of common coexisting conditions among people with epilepsy, as well as the relation of these comorbidities with epilepsy outcomes, health care use and cost, and mortality.

Epidemiologic Research and Surveillance in Pediatric Epilepsy

RTI International

The purpose of this study is to: (1) describe the incidence and prevalence of epilepsy among children (aged 1 month to 18 years) in a racially and economically diverse population (District of Columbia); (2) assess use of healthcare, responsiveness of health systems, and obstacles to care among children with epilepsy and their families; and (3) characterize risk factors, outcomes, and coexisting health conditions related to prevalent and new-onset pediatric epilepsy.