RESEARCH has been launched in Cornwall to establish whether a 'safety check list' could help doctors identify if a patient with epilepsy is more at risk of SUDEP.

SUDEP is used when someone with epilepsy dies suddenly — often after a seizure that involves a loss of consciousness. Whilst doctors have information to help patients avoid fatal accidents or prolonged seizures, much less is known about SUDEP.

Researchers are looking at records held by the local coroner since 2004.

More than 100 epilepsy-related deaths are included in the study. Previous research from specialist epilepsy centres has highlighted risk factors such as severe and frequent seizures.

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