Global, regional and national burden of epilepsy in children and adolescents, 1990–2021: A systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

While efforts to reduce premature mortality of epilepsy have been successful, the burden on children and adolescents living with epilepsy is still significant. A healthcare gap remains for vulnerable populations with increased risk of infectious diseases, perinatal insults, poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare. Global and national action is needed to improve access to specialist care and medication, manage comorbidities, address stigma and discrimination and strengthen primary prevention initiatives.