§ Mr. LockTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what research his Department has commissioned into sudden death in epilepsy; what directions have been issued to health authorities and trusts concerning sudden death in epilepsy; and if he will make a statement.[22484]
§ Mr. BoatengThe Medical Research Council (MRC) funds around £600,000 of general epilepsy research. There is no research currently being undertaken which is specifically and exclusively into sudden death in epilepsy. However, the MRC multicentre study of early epilepsy and single seizures is looking at immediate versus deferred drug therapy in patients with recently diagnosed single seizures. A number of different outcomes are being examined, including death, and prognostic factors for these are being determined.
The Department issued an Executive Letter (95)120 "A Positive Approach to Epilepsy" to all health authorities and trusts in January 1996 asking the National Health Service to work towards best practice in commissioning, contracting and service delivery for epilepsy. The Epilepsy Task Force's "Specification for Epilepsy Services" was enclosed with the EL which made specific recommendations to improve and prioritise epilepsy services, including reducing morbidity and preventing avoidable mortality.
The Department is working closely with other government departments to increase cooperation on epilepsy and encourage initiatives in other areas such as education and employment.