Epilepsy is about much more than seizures. The condition can be associated with a wide range of comorbidities and challenges that affect many aspects of daily life. Despite this, the psychosocial and everyday-life needs of people with epilepsy and their caregivers remain relatively understudied.
Addressing these gaps is essential to improving understanding, support and quality of life for those living with epilepsy. That is why we believe it is important to invest in research that looks at the broader impact of epilepsy on people and their families.
The projects funded to date have explored a range of important topics, from the national impact of epilepsy to the experiences of women with epilepsy during pregnancy. We remain committed to supporting research that addresses these understudied but vital areas, helping to improve the lives and wellbeing of people living with epilepsy.
The following research projects have been funded by Epilepsy Ireland to better understand how people with epilepsy can live healthier, safer and fuller lives. The projects are grouped into ongoing and completed studies. Click on the title of each project to find more information on that individual investigation.
Ongoing Projects
- Project: Epilepsy Mortality in Ireland
- Who? Dr Yvonne Langan; St James’s Hospital/ Trinity College in collaboration with HRB
- Years funded: 2020+ (Ongoing)
- Project: Epilepsy Deaths Register for Ireland
- Who? UCC/ Sheffield University;
- Years funded: 2015+ (Ongoing)
Completed Projects
- Project: Health information and education resources for women with epilepsy from preconception to postpartum
- Who? Dr Aisling Walsh, Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, RCSI
- Years funded: 2023-2025
- Project: The Collaborative Development of an Evidence-based Educational Resource for Self-disclosure Strategies for People With Epilepsy
- Who? Dr Naomi Elliott; Trinity College Dublin;
- Years funded: 2014 – 2016
- Project: An evaluation of the role of the Epilepsy Specialist Nurse and the impact on patient quality of life.
- Who? Prof Agnes Higgins; Trinity College Dublin
- Years funded: 2013 – 2016
- Project: Demystify the veil of secrecy: a mixed method inquiry of parent-child dialogue about epilepsy and its associated stigma.
- Who? Dr Veronica Lambert; Dublin City University
- Years funded: 2013- 2016
- Project: Baroreflex sensitivity in individuals with epilepsy: Does it play a role in SUDEP?
- Who? Dr Yvonne Langan; St James’s Hospital
- Years funded: 2010 – 2012
- Project: The Prevalence of Epilepsy in Ireland Study
- Who? Dr Christine Linehan; University College Dublin;
- Years funded: 2009