Public knowledge, awareness and attitude toward epilepsy among adult population in Taif city, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, awareness, and attitude of the general public toward epilepsy. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in Taif city, Saudi Arabia, between December 29 ,2022, and June 5, 2023, and included all residents of Taif city aged 18 years and above. A self-reported questionnaire was used to recruit participants. It consisted of four sections including sociodemographic data, awareness level, knowledge level, and the attitude of the participants toward epilepsy. Results: A total of 512 individuals participated in this study. Around 43.6% were males and 51.8% were aged between 18 and 30 years. Almost 84.6% had heard of epilepsy and 57.4% had witnessed someone with an acute seizure. In general, the participants had adequate knowledge, as 59.2% correctly recognized it as a neurological condition, especially among the younger adult group (p-value = 0.023). Moreover, the majority of the younger adults identified convulsions as a symptom of epilepsy (p-value = 0.001). The attitude regarding epilepsy was satisfactory with more than 80% disagreeing that it is a form of insanity. Conclusion: Knowledge and attitude toward epilepsy among the general public in Taif city, Saudi Arabia, was satisfactory. However, public awareness campaigns and educational programs regarding the appropriate management of acute seizure attacks are needed.