Using data from the 2003 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS), this article assesses the prevalence of self-reported and active epilepsy, as well as associated health-related quality of life issues, among adults in California. 

Among adults with active epilepsy and recent seizures, about one-quarter reported not taking any medicine to control their seizure disorder or epilepsy. About one-third reported physical disability/unable to work compared to a small proportion of the general population. The majority of adults with active epilepsy reported having a regular source of medical care.

The article highlights the burden of epilepsy among this population, and demonstrates the value of CHIS in guiding intervention, research and public policy to improve the quality of life of epilepsy sufferers.