FAQs
Will I be able to have my personal or family genetic information from this study?
No. This study is not for diagnostic purposes. Results provide meaningful statistical information only for the entire group of participants and cannot yet provide results relevant to specific individuals.
Will I be able to participate without my family members?
Yes. Anyone meeting our study criteria may participate with or without family members.
Can I receive genetic counseling from this study?
No. We are not certified to provide genetic counseling, but are more than happy to refer you to specialists in the field.
Can this study determine if my children will have epilepsy?
No. One of the purposes of our work is to be able to predict a person’s risk for epilepsy but we do not yet have sufficient understanding of what causes epilepsy to be able to provide such information.
How do I benefit from participating in this study?
By joining our study, you and your family play an important role in finding causes of certain seizure types. You contribute to advancing science and understanding the genetic origins of epilepsy.
Will my insurance company learn of my participation in this study?
No. Study participation is completely confidential; your medical information will not be shared with any third party or organization. Once we receive your saliva sample, all names are removed and replaced by numbers. All files and clinical information are stored in a locked cabinet in a locked office, per University research regulations.
How can I help the study?
There are a variety of ways you can help the study. If you have Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy, you contact any member of the Study Team to participate. If you do not have epilepsy or have it in your family, you can become a volunteer control. Additionally, we are looking for people who wish to volunteer for special projects on the study. As a study that receives its support from the National Institutes of Health, we are always looking for contributions of any kind.