Who Is Most Likely to Develop Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterised by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. While epilepsy can affect anyone, certain groups of people are more likely to develop the condition due to a variety of genetic, environmental, and health-related factors. Understanding who is most at risk helps with early recognition, diagnosis, and management. This article explores the populations most likely to develop epilepsy, the reasons behind increased risk, and what this means for prevention and care, based on trusted UK health information.

Age-Related Risk

Epilepsy can develop at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in two distinct age groups: young children and older adults. Children under the age of 16 are more likely to develop epilepsy due to factors such as genetic conditions, developmental brain abnormalities, and complications during birth. In contrast, adults over 60 are also at increased risk, often because of strokes, brain injuries, tumours, or neurodegenerative diseases that become more common with ageing.

Genetic Predisposition

Some people inherit genes that make their brains more susceptible to seizures. These genetic factors can lead to specific epilepsy syndromes that often present in childhood or adolescence. Having a close family member with epilepsy slightly increases the risk, although most people with a family history do not develop the condition. Ongoing research is uncovering more about the genetic contributions to epilepsy.

Brain Injury and Neurological Conditions

Individuals who have experienced brain injuries from accidents, strokes, infections such as meningitis or encephalitis, or brain tumours are at higher risk of developing epilepsy. Damage to brain tissue can disrupt normal electrical activity, creating a focus for seizures. People with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s may also develop epilepsy as part of their illness.

Health and Lifestyle Factors

Certain health conditions and lifestyle factors can increase epilepsy risk. For example, alcohol misuse, drug abuse, and exposure to toxins can provoke seizures and contribute to epilepsy development. Severe infections, metabolic imbalances, and autoimmune disorders affecting the brain are also linked to higher risk. Socioeconomic factors may play a role, with epilepsy being more prevalent in deprived areas.

Perinatal and Developmental Factors

Complications during pregnancy or birth, such as oxygen deprivation or premature delivery, can cause brain damage leading to epilepsy in infants or young children. Developmental disorders and congenital brain abnormalities also increase the likelihood of seizures.

Why Some Groups Are More Vulnerable

The increased risk in certain groups is due to a combination of biological vulnerability, environmental exposures, and access to healthcare. Early-life brain development and ageing processes make young children and older adults particularly susceptible. Genetic factors and acquired brain injuries further influence vulnerability.

Implications for Prevention and Care

Understanding who is most likely to develop epilepsy supports targeted prevention efforts, such as managing stroke risk in older adults or improving perinatal care. Early recognition in high-risk groups enables prompt diagnosis and treatment, reducing seizure frequency and complications.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you or someone in a higher-risk group experiences unexplained seizures or neurological symptoms, seek medical evaluation promptly. Early assessment improves outcomes and allows for effective management.

Final Thought

Epilepsy most commonly develops in young children and older adults, with additional risk factors including genetic predisposition, brain injury, and certain health conditions. Awareness of these risks helps with early detection and appropriate care, improving quality of life for those affected.