Prevalence of Epilepsy in Heavy Vehicle Drivers

Abstract

This cross-sectional type study was conducted between November 2004 and September 2006. In a total of 200 male persons were randomly selected from the heavy vehicle driver population (p=0.08,q=0.92,N=1200, alpha=0.01, d=0.045). In a total of 200 male non-driver persons of the same ages were used as a control g roup. 90 % were reached for the sample. A total of 181 heavy vehicle drivers were included in the study (75 bus and 106 truck drivers). A questionnaire form including 30 questions interrogating epilepsy disease was used by performing face to face method. According to questionnaire the EEG test was performed for the individuals with epilepsy suspect. The EEG test results were evaluated by a neurologist. C The epilepsy prevalence was determined as 8.3 parts per thousand in the whole group (n=390). The rate was 11 parts per thousand in study group and 5.6 parts per thousand in control group. The prevalence of epilepsy in heavy vehicle drivers resembles the general Population prevalence. It call be seen that there is problem in diagnosis of epilepsy in routine examination for driving licenses. A detailed examination and interrogation must be performed for drivers, especially for heavy vehicle users who risk the traffic security more than the rest.