Epilepsy Awareness Research Articles

Attitudes and perceptions towards epilepsy in an onchocerciasis-endemic region of Tanzania: a mixed approach to determine the magnitude and driving factors

BackgroundEpilepsy remains a significant public health concern in Tanzania, with affected individuals enduring stigma, whether through actions or perceptions. Myths, misunderstandings, and misconceptions about epilepsy have persisted due to a multitude of factors. Here, we assessed attitudes and perceptions toward epilepsy in Mahenge.MethodsA cross-sectional study utilising a mixed-methods approach was undertaken in eight villages in the Ulanga district of Mahenge, integrating a semi-structured questionnaire and focus group discussions (FGDs). The questionnaire involved 778 community members, and 15 FGDs were conducted (seven groups with people with epilepsy and eight without). Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and logistic regression were used for quantitative analysis, while we used NVivo version 14 for thematic analysis of qualitative data.ResultsOf 778 participants, over half were women (425, 54.6%) with a median age of 41 years (IQR: 30–55) and most had completed primary education (79.9%). The majority of participants were aware of epilepsy (96.8%), yet they displayed low knowledge (51%), negative attitudes (45.5%), and perceptions (42.1%) towards the disorder. A low level of understanding was significantly associated with negative attitudes (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 1.89, 95%CI: 1.41–2.53) and perceptions (AOR = 3.22, 95%CI: 2.05–5.04) towards epilepsy. In the qualitative analysis, often hereditary factors and infections were named as causes of epilepsy, along with misconceptions involving witchcraft and divine punishment. There was also a misconception about the contagiousness of epilepsy. Traditional healers were often the initial point of treatment. Epilepsy-related stigma was evident, with individuals with epilepsy facing derogatory labels, social isolation, and barriers to education. Lastly, there was a lack of understanding regarding a possible association between epilepsy and onchocerciasis.ConclusionsDespite high awareness of epilepsy, there is insufficient understanding, negative attitudes, and perceptions, including misconceptions and stigma about this neurologic condition. Community-based education programmes are essential for promoting proper healthcare-seeking behaviour and dispelling myths.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of caregivers with children diagnosed with epilepsy attending a pediatric outpatient clinic: a descriptive, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

BackgroundCaregivers’ knowledge and attitudes influence help-seeking behavior and treatment decisions of patients with epilepsy, which in turn significantly impacts epilepsy care. In Ethiopia, epilepsy is often misunderstood, associated with misconceptions and accompanied by persistent negative attitudes. The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of caregivers of children with epilepsy.MethodsWe conducted a hospital-based survey at the Yekatit 12 Hospital Pediatric Neurology Clinic, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, between May and July 2022. We invited caregivers of children with epilepsy taking one or more daily anti-seizure medications to participate. Caregivers were invited to complete a structured questionnaire with guidance from a trained nurse to estimate knowledge and attitudes towards epilepsy and its treatment. Knowledge and attitudes were categorized as “good” and “favorable” (correct answers to ≥ 50% of questions) or “bad” and “unfavorable” (< 50% correct answers), respectively. Attitudes towards standard care versus non-standard (e.g., spiritual) care were also estimated.ResultsA total of 120 caregivers completed the questionnaire. Many caregivers were familiar with the term ‘epilepsy’, with more than half (51.7%) having heard or read about it previously. The reported causes of epilepsy varied, with birth injury being the most common cause (44 out of 120 caregivers). Notably, there was association between the caregiver’s gender and their knowledge score, with a p-value = 0.05. Caregivers exposed to information about epilepsy through hearing or reading demonstrated significantly higher levels of knowledge, with a p-value < 0.001. Additionally, knowing someone with epilepsy other than the index child was significantly associated with higher knowledge scores (p-value < 0.001). The study also revealed negative attitudes toward epilepsy: for example, 56.7% of surveyed caregivers believed it is unlikely that a child with epilepsy has normal cognitive abilities and 39.1% believed they should never be allowed to attend regular school. Additionally, a high proportion of caregivers (70%) sought alternative treatments (e.g., spiritual help) alongside standard medical care.ConclusionsA significant knowledge gap was identified among caregivers, revealing prevalent misconceptions and negative attitudes. Improving epilepsy awareness, attitudes, and practices among caregivers will potentially contribute to overall improved quality of life for children with epilepsy.

Dramatic Improvements in Patient Understanding of Epilepsy in Iraq

Background: Epilepsy, a chronic brain disorder causing recurrent seizures, affects over 50 million people globally, leading to significant social challenges due to prevalent misconceptions. Objective: This study aims to evaluate patients' knowledge about epilepsy at Baquba Teaching Hospital's neurological department. Methodology: A pre-experimental design with pretest and posttest assessments was conducted from July 11 to December 5, 2023, involving 100 epilepsy patients. Data were gathered using the Epilepsy Knowledge Scale (EKS), with both inferential and descriptive statistical analyses. Results: Patients initially had insufficient knowledge about epilepsy, but the instructional program significantly improved their understanding, as shown by notable pretest and posttest score differences. Novelty: This study highlights the efficacy of instructional programs in enhancing epilepsy knowledge among patients, emphasizing the importance of educational interventions in managing chronic neurological conditions. Implications: The results suggest that instructional programs should be routinely implemented in clinical settings to increase epilepsy awareness and knowledge among patients. Conclusion: The instructional program effectively enhances epilepsy knowledge among patients, suggesting it should be routinely implemented to improve patient education and outcomes, regardless of socio-demographic factors. Highlight: Patients initially had low epilepsy knowledge. Instructional program greatly improved understanding. No link between knowledge and demographics. Keywords: Epilepsy, patient knowledge, instructional program, neurological disorders, Baquba Teaching Hospital

Creating inclusive communities: the role of practical theology in addressing stigma and discrimination against people with epilepsy in Yoruba Pentecostal communities

ABSTRACT This research investigates the interplay of witchcraft beliefs, epilepsy, poverty, stigma, and discrimination in Nigerian Yoruba Pentecostal communities. Through semi-structured interviews with 15 Yoruba Pentecostal leaders in southwestern Nigeria and engaging with scholarly works on religion, health, and disability in Africa, this study provides nuanced insights into the complex intersections of these topics. Highlighting the significant role of practical theology, the paper argues for its potential in fostering more inclusive communities. A key element of this article is that it illustrates how theological practices can cultivate respect and understanding for individuals with epilepsy and challenge prevailing cultural beliefs and medical misconceptions. Taking this approach is crucial to dismantling the stigmas and discrimination prevalent in these communities. A major outcome of the study is the recommendation of effective strategies to increase epilepsy awareness and foster empathy within Yoruba Pentecostal circles, promoting social inclusion and transforming attitudes towards health and disability in African religious contexts. Overall, this research contributes to the broader dialogue on religion, health, and social inclusion in Africa, emphasising the transformative power of practical theology in addressing critical social issues.

Let’s Talk About Epilepsy

Epilepsy, a brain disorder marked by recurrent, unprovoked seizures, affects over 50 million people globally according to the WHO. Modern medicine has evolved to offer various antiepileptic medications and precision-targeted medicine, highlighting the critical role of continued research and financial investment in developing innovative treatments. Brazilian Ronaldo Nazario, who is one of the greatest football players, had seizures throughout his career. The most critical seizure that he had was during the final of the FIFA World Cup in 1998, which affected his performance and led to his team’s defeat. Legends with epilepsy did not let epilepsy define them; they struggled and believed that they could. After all, NO PAIN, NO GAIN. While legal advancements, such as amendments to the Hindu Marriage Act in India, which permits those with epilepsy to marry, have been made, challenges persist. Today, there are restrictions on obtaining a driving license, illustrating the ongoing battle against societal barriers. Purple Day, observed annually on March 26, symbolizes a global effort to raise epilepsy awareness. The choice of purple is related to the lavender flower, which is associated with solitude – a reflection of the isolation that people with epilepsy may feel. Stigma leads to depression, and a decline in self-esteem, underlining the importance of comprehensive support systems. Epilepsy may bring challenges, but it also brings strength and resilience. As health-care workers, we are bound to help in spreading awareness, alleviate the stigma, and provide holistic care to those with epilepsy. The love and support that we render will help them take more steps forward and come out with flying colors in this battle against epilepsy. Let us help them “Seize the day.” “Courage is not having the strength to go on, it is going on when you don’t have the strength.”–Theodore Roosevelt

Interactive Game "Purple Seahorse" Raises Public Awareness, Caring for Individuals with Epilepsy

This initiative focuses on developing a Role-Playing Game (RPG) centred on epilepsy to provide fundamental knowledge about the condition. Utilizing interactive features and storytelling enhances user engagement. The main goals of this interactive learning game are to promote a community of respect and tolerance, increase public awareness of epilepsy, and combat associated prejudice. The project follows an Enhanced 3 Production methodology, comprising pre-production, production, and post-production phases. Data collection employs both qualitative and quantitative methods, with formative and summative evaluations contributing to the assessment process. Feedback from experts and end-users has guided improvements to the game. Results from game reviews show positive responses, indicating users' engagement with the epilepsy theme and their preference for interactive learning. These findings suggest opportunities for further research to expand the content.

Enhancing Epilepsy Awareness and Cooperative Care in Elementary and Middle Schools

Epilepsy, a prevalent chronic neurological disorder, presents numerous challenges for people with epilepsy (PWEs) and their caregivers. They experience difficulties in receiving proper care and support due to stigma and misconceptions. Promoting public awareness in early education would be critical to reduce the stigma and to properly support them. We conducted 145 surveys and 21 interviews with teachers, school nurses, and parents of elementary and middle school students. While the participants exhibited slightly positive attitudes towards PWEs, we identified obstacles that hinder learning about epilepsy and seizure first aid: inadequate education and limited information sharing among school stakeholders. Moreover, there is a pressing need for age-appropriate education that considers the students' ages and perceptual levels. Considering the current limitations and needs, we propose potential implications for future information and communication technologies (ICTs) designs, including knowledge-sharing systems and an educational game aimed at enhancing epilepsy awareness and fostering collaborative care in elementary and middle school environments.

Public Awareness of Epilepsy and Social Attitude Toward Persons With Epilepsy Among the General Population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder characterized by an ongoing propensity to experience recurrent seizures. Public awareness varies significantly across different countries. The lack of awareness may lead to misconceptions, which in turn may affect the quality of care for these patients. This study aims to assess public awareness and social attitudes toward patients with epilepsy among the general population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted, targeting the general population of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected anonymously fromparticipants who met our inclusion criteria via electronic data collection Google Forms distributed through social media platforms. Questionnaires included participants' demographic data and details about their awareness regarding epilepsy, attitude, and anticipated behaviors. The eligible persons were asked to fill out the study questionnaire completely. A total of 1,126 eligible participants completed the study questionnaire. The participants' ages ranged from 18 to over 60, with a mean age of 32.1 ± 13.9 years. Of these participants, 849 (75.4%) were female. Interestingly, 97% of the participants reported that they had heard about epilepsy. A total of 96.7% do not think epilepsy is contiguous. Exactly 350 (31.1%) had an overall good knowledge and awareness regarding epilepsy. The most reported sources included relatives/friends (46.8%), internet (38.5%), and personal experience (27.9%). A total of 337 (29.9%) reported that they know how to deal with a seizure. Our study revealed that the sampled population of Makkah is aware of epilepsy on a superficial level, but approximately one out each three participants in Makkah were knowledgeable regarding epilepsy and related causes overall. The overall attitude is positive. A well-targeted educational campaign, designed by physicians as trustful sources, is recommended.

Awareness, attitudes and first aid knowledge of epilepsy among university students – A cross-sectional study in Henan Province, China

PurposeEpilepsy is a debilitating disease that can lead to series of social and psychological issues, impairing the quality of life of people with epilepsy (PWE). This survey aimed to investigate the awareness, attitudes, and first-aid knowledge of epilepsy in university students MethodThis cross-sectional study was conducted in Henan Province, China between January 1 and April 30, 2022. Students majored in education, medicine, science and engineering from 8 universities attended the study. The survey questionnaire comprised 28 questions covering 4 sections: demographic characteristics, awareness of epilepsy, attitudes toward PWE and knowledge of first aid for seizures. ResultsA total of 2376 university students completed the questionnaire. 94.7% heard of epilepsy. In the first aid knowledge section, individual question was correctly answered by at least 50% students, 9.3% students correctly answered all questions. Attitude toward PWE was independently (R2 =0.108, F=73.227, p < 0.001) associated with both awareness of epilepsy (B=0.411, p < 0.001) and first aid knowledge of epilepsy (B=0.047, p = 0.001). Among the three majors, medical students had more positive attitudes toward PWE than students majored in education, science and engineering (p < 0.05). However, medical students performed worse among the groups when answering the first aid knowledge questions. ConclusionThis survey showed that university students in Central China had a good awareness of epilepsy. For medical students, improvements are necessary for the awareness of the first aid knowledge for seizure.

Transition in epilepsy – A pilot study with patients in and outside of academic centers

RationaleEpilepsy is a complex condition and seizures are only one part of this disease. The move from pediatric to adult healthcare system proves difficult for many adolescents with epilepsy and their families. The challenges increase when patients have epilepsies associated with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and motor disorders. Knowledge and system gaps may exist between the two systems, adding to the challenges. The main goal of this study is to understand the perception of patients with epilepsy and their families who were preparing to move from pediatric to adult healthcare system or had already moved. MethodsA survey was distributed to patients/caregivers of patients with epilepsy through patient support groups in North America and in-person through the 2019 Epilepsy Awareness Day at Disneyland. Patients were required to be 12 years or older at the time of the survey and were divided into two groups: those between 12 and 17 years and those 18 years or older. Caregivers answered on behalf of patients who were unable to respond (e.g., intellectual disability). Major components of the survey included demographics, epilepsy details, quality and access to care received in pediatric and adult years, and questions regarding transition and readiness. ResultsResponses were received from 58 patients/caregivers of patients with epilepsy from Canada and the United States. In group A (patients between 12 and 17 years), none of the 17-year-old patients were spoken to about transition. Patients (caregivers) with epilepsy and intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) had less time to discuss important things during the transition/transfer phase than patients with normal intelligence. Finally, there was a statistically significant difference observed in access to specialty care reported in the adult years, compared to the years in the pediatric system.In the group B (patients 18 years and older) a) 35 % still visit their family doctor for epilepsy related treatment despite the majority being on 2 or more antiseizure medications (ASMs); b) 27 % of patients in this group were still being followed by their pediatric neurologist; c) one patient received care only through visits to the emergency department; d) only 4 % felt that they received clear instructions during transfer of care such as knowing the name of the adult healthcare practitioner and/or the name of the care institution they were being transferred to. ConclusionsThis study highlights the lack of appropriate transition to adult healthcare system (AHCS) amongst an unselected group of patients with epilepsy in Canada and United States. An overwhelming majority of patients followed in the community and in academy centers were simply “transferred” to an adult health practitioner, or they remained under the care of pediatricians. Finally, most patients lack access to significant social and medical support after moving to the AHCS.

Developing and Validating an Epilepsy Awareness and Education Program: Bridging Gaps in Knowledge and Support for People Living with Epilepsy and Their Families.

Various epilepsy studies on epilepsy awareness and knowledge highlight underlying myths, misconceptions, stigma, and discrimination associated with epilepsy, People Living with Epilepsy (PLWE), and their families. This study aimed to develop an epilepsy awareness and education programme to enhance epilepsy awareness and support among individuals living with epilepsy and their families. Participatory Action Research (PAR) laid the ground for the programme's investigation, development, and implementation. The study stakeholders (co-researchers) included PLWE, family members and caregivers (FMCs), community members, and health care providers (HCPs) who participated in the inception of the study, data collection, programme development, and validation. The study included four phases: phase one was a systematic review, phase two was an empirical phase that included an explanatory sequential mixed method, phase three was meta-inferences and conceptualization, and the last phase was the development and validation of the programme. All phases of the study informed the development of the programme (using a step-step guide to programme development). From these, the gaps and potential education needs were identified. Gaps such as insufficient knowledge about epilepsy in rural communities, negative attitudes and satisfactory awareness, and a need for support and care for PLWE and FMCs. Implementation of this programme will improve epilepsy knowledge, care, and support in marginalised communities, establishing a more conducive environment and ultimately improving the quality of life for patients and their families.

A community-based awareness program improves knowledge and attitudes toward epilepsy: An interventional study

ObjectiveLittle interventional studies were conducted to improve knowledge, improve attitude, and eliminate stigma against patients with epilepsy. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of a community-based epilepsy awareness program (CBEAP) on knowledge, attitude, and stigma against patients with epilepsy among the Palestinian general public. MethodsThis interventional study used a pre-post design. Knowledge and attitudes were assessed using a reliable and internally consistent questionnaire before and 1 month after receiving a CBEAP. Knowledge was assessed using a 16-item and attitudes were assessed using 13 items. ResultsA total of 150 participants completed the questionnaire before the CBEAP. Of those, 136 (90.7 %) completed the CBEAP, and 129 (86.0 %) completed the questionnaire 1 month after receiving the CBEAP. The CBEAP significantly (p-value < 0.05) increased knowledge about the nature of epilepsy and seizures, triggers and treatment options, and patients with epilepsy. Similarly, the CBEAP significantly (p-value < 0.001) improved the attitudes of the participants toward epilepsy or having epilepsy, patients with epilepsy, relationships with patients with epilepsy, and working or staying with patients with epilepsy. Greater changes in knowledge and attitude scores were predicted by younger age and having a close friend or family member with epilepsy. ConclusionThe CBEAP developed and implemented in this interventional study significantly increased the knowledge of the participants about epilepsy and improved their attitudes toward epilepsy and patients with epilepsy. Large-scale implementation of such interventional programs is still needed to increase knowledge and improve attitudes toward epilepsy and patients with epilepsy.

Teachers' Negative Attitudes and Limited Health Literacy Levels as Risks for Low Awareness of Epilepsy in Turkey.

For students with epilepsy, schools are a critical environment for managing the disease properly. This study examined awareness of epilepsy, attitudes toward epilepsy, and health literacy among school teachers in Turkey. This study was conducted in a city in Turkey with 1408 public school teachers from June 2021 to September 2021. The median scores of the scales were 5, 29, and 32 for epilepsy awareness, epilepsy attitudes, and health literacy, respectively. Epilepsy awareness was higher in women, and epilepsy attitudes were more positive in women than men (p<0.05). While epilepsy awareness was higher in primary school teachers, epilepsy attitudes were more positive in secondary school teachers (p<0.05). Epilepsy awareness was lower in secondary school teachers (odds ratio [OR], 1.27; p<0.05), those who did not have an individual with epilepsy in their family/social environment (OR, 1.57; p<0.001), those who did not have a student with epilepsy in their class (OR, 1.45; p<0.05), and in those who had not witnessed an epilepsy seizure (OR,1.19; p<0.05). Compared to those with positive attitudes regarding epilepsy, epilepsy awareness was 1.36 times lower in those with negative attitudes (p<0.001). Epilepsy awareness was 1.92 times lower in those with limited health literacy than those with adequate health literacy (p<0.001). In this study, low epilepsy awareness, negative epilepsy attitudes, and limited health literacy were common among teachers. The findings from this study suggest that panels, workshops, and health training on epilepsy should be organized for school teachers and included at regular intervals in certified first-aid practices.

An online survey on differences in knowledge and stigma about epilepsy among the Tokyo metropolitan area and non-urban areas in Japan, a post-hoc study

PurposeExtant research elucidating the domains of knowledge and bias on epilepsy has consistently underscored a deficiency in cognizance and an inclination toward bias within non-urban areas. Investigations into geographical disparities concerning epilepsy awareness and prejudice within the Japanese context remain conspicuously absent. To address this lacuna in the literature, we undertook a post-hoc analysis to elucidate the discernible regional differentials in epilepsy awareness and the associated stigma. MethodsFrom July to August 2021, we conducted an internet questionnaire survey for 310 people with epilepsy (PWE) and 213 ordinary people without epilepsy who registered on the database of the Japanese Research Company. We inquired PWE to answer the Epilepsy Self-Stigma Scale (ESSS), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Epilepsy Knowledge Scale (EKS). We inquired to answer ordinary people without epilepsy EKS. We analyzed residential addresses separately for Greater Tokyo and non-urban areas by comparing the degree of knowledge of people with epilepsy and people without epilepsy. ResultsThe average knowledge of people with and without epilepsy in the Greater Tokyo area was 39.60 and 28.43 points, although in non-urban areas (nine regions from all over Japan except for the Greater Tokyo, Tokai region, and Kinki region), the knowledge averages were 38.44 and 28.66 points of 100. In addition, self-stigma was highest in the Greater Tokyo area: 22.99 and in non-urban areas: 22.77. An two-way ANOVA with knowledge as the dependent variable and epilepsy diagnosis status and region (Greater Tokyo area/non-urban areas) as the independent variables revealed no interaction between diagnosis and region (F(1,346) = 1.48, η2 = 0.003). Knowledge was significantly higher in PWE than in people without epilepsy, but we could not identify any significant difference between ESSS (t = 0.24, d = 0.03) and RSES (t = 1.16, d = 0.16) in the Greater Tokyo/non-urban areas. ConclusionsWe obtained specific information about regional differences in the level of knowledge and stigma about epilepsy in Japan. Because Japan underwent educational reforms after World War II and more than 90% of the population received equally advanced education, the results found no regional differences in knowledge and stigma about epilepsy. We believe collecting information about the respondents' birth and upbringing environment and conducting a thorough investigation is necessary in the future.

Public Awareness and Attitudes towards Epilepsy: A Cross-Sectional Study

Epilepsy is surrounded by stigma and unfavorable attitudes as a result of several inaccurate or insufficient knowledge linked to the disease, and individuals have negative views of the disorder. They must have up-to-date knowledge and an acceptable approach to epilepsy and antiepileptic medications. This study aimed to assess the public general awareness of epilepsy and attitude toward persons living with epilepsy and its associated factors. A descriptive cross-sectional study was undertaken in Taif, Saudi Arabia, targeting the general public with a self-administered validated Arabic questionnaire. The questionnaire, which comprised two sections and included the responder's demographic information, was distributed over social media platforms between March 18, 2022, and June 3, 2022. A total of 500 respondents who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The characteristics of the subjects were described using descriptive statistics, and differences were assessed using the independent sample t-test and 2-way ANOVA. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. A total of 500 individuals who met the inclusion criteria were included. The mean (standard deviation) score for general epilepsy awareness was 6.78(1.74), which is altogether considered as insufficient. Female participants had a substantially higher mean (SD) awareness score than male participants: 32.58(7.67); 95% CI: 31.34-33.68 versus 29.94(8.79); 95% CI: 28.93-30.95, P0.001. There were no significant differences in participants' awareness scores based on their nationality or occupation. Participants' attitudes towards PWE were mainly favorable, with 482 (96.4%) reporting that they would not be embarrassed if someone in their family had epilepsy, and that PWE should not hide their condition. According to this study, more people are aware of epilepsy and have a good attitude toward it. Furthermore, the study discovered a link between the three variables of interest and ...

Comparison of knowledge and awareness of epilepsy between medical students of two universities in Poland

BackgroundEpilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders. As a chronic disease, associated with long-term treatment with antiseizure medication, it can have a negative impact on patients’ quality of life. Moreover, patients are faced with a significant psychosocial burden associated with the stigma surrounding epilepsy. Medical professionals should be well educated and free of prejudices in order to provide adequate care for patients with epilepsy. The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of epilepsy among medical students of years 1–6 in Poland and examine if certain personality traits influence students’ view of epilepsy. MethodsThe study was conducted using snowball sampling of 166 Polish medical students from Medical University of Gdansk and Medical University of Warsaw. Participants completed a survey which consisted of their subjective assessment of knowledge of epileptology, actual knowledge of epileptology, and their view of stereotypes about epilepsy. In addition, students completed the IPIP-BFM-20 personality questionnaire. ResultsPolish medical students have sufficient basic knowledge about epilepsy (mean scores of students from both universities is 14 out of 25 points). There is still room for improvement, especially in the field of epidemiology, semiology, factors provoking seizures, antiseizure medications, and most importantly about first aid during seizure (e.g., 7% of respondents believed it is necessary to put something between teeth of a patient during seizure). Age and the year of study were well correlated with knowledge score (p = 0.008) and level of awareness of the stereotypes. We found that most personality traits do not have a strong impact on the level of knowledge about epilepsy. ConclusionsMost students have a satisfying level of knowledge about epilepsy. Academic teachers should put more emphasis on first aid during seizures and awareness of psychosocial challenges associated with the disease. It is crucial for future physicians to not only possess sufficient theoretical knowledge, but also establish an empathetic doctor–patient relationship in order to provide better care for patients with epilepsy and other chronic diseases.

Knowledge, awareness, and attitudes towards epilepsy among elementary schoolteachers in the Kingdom of Bahrain

BackgroundTeachers’ awareness of epilepsy and attitudes toward students with epilepsy (SWE) largely affect their health, behavior, and academic performance. This study aimed to assess elementary schoolteachers' background knowledge and attitudes toward epilepsy in the Kingdom of Bahrain. MethodsA 23-item online questionnaire was distributed to elementary school teachers in all public schools in Bahrain between September 2022 and February 2023. The questionnaire included three sets of questions about teachers'1) demographics and teaching experience, 2) knowledge and experience with epilepsy, and 3) attitude towards SWE. ResultsThree hundred and sixty-seven teachers responded to the questionnaire. Only 82 participants (22.3%) thought they had enough information about epilepsy. Approximately 25% had previously taught SWE. Even though 9.3% have witnessed a seizure before, only 2.2% received seizure first aid training courses. Most respondents (68.7%) knew that epilepsy is caused by abnormal brain electrical activity and is not contagious (95.1%). Regarding seizure types, 76.6% were aware of uncontrollable jerky movements, while staring spells were recognized by 45%. Most first-aid responses were inappropriate, as 59.7% would open the patient's mouth. Only 39.5% agreed on patient transfer to the hospital if the seizure lasted ≥5 min. Epilepsy was thought to cause mental retardation by 32.4%. Also, the belief that SWE were more prone to bullying was reported by 57.2%. ConclusionThe knowledge and attitudes of schoolteachers in Bahrain towards epilepsy are relatively good but with remaining improvement potential. They do not fully grasp all seizure types nor adequate first-aid measures promoting future epilepsy educational programs.

Health-related quality of life and associated factors among adult patients with epilepsy in public hospitals of Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia. An embedded mixed method study

BackgroundThe socioeconomic and overall quality of life of patients with epilepsy are significantly impacted by the disease, which is one of the most prevalent chronic noncommunicable brain disorders. Less consideration has, however, been given to research in Ethiopia generally and the study setting in particular. Consequently, the purpose of this study was to assess the health-related quality of life and associated factors among adult patients with epilepsy in public hospitals in the Wolaita zone of southern Ethiopia. MethodsA facility-based embedded mixed method with cross-sectional and phenomenological study designs was carried out on 423 adult patients with epilepsy from August 1 to August 30, 2022. Systematic and criterion-purposive sampling was employed for the cross-sectional and phenomenological designs, respectively, to select study participants. Quantitative data were entered into Kobo Toolbox and then exported to SPSS Version 25 for analysis. The frequency, percentage, and cross-tabulation of the different variables were then determined. Finally, the magnitude and associated factors were first analyzed using binary logistic regression and then multivariate logistic regression. P < 0.05 was chosen as the level of statistical significance. An inductive thematic approach was used for qualitative data analysis. ResultsA total of 423 patients with epilepsy were included in the study, making the response rate 100%. The overall prevalence of poor quality of life among patients with epilepsy in the study area was 53 percent (95% CI: 48.24–57.76). Being single (AOR = 4.457, 95% CI: 1.149, 17.282), having poor social support (AOR = 3.741, 95% CI: 2.107, 6.643), having uncontrolled seizures (AOR = 2.154, 95% CI: 1.234, 3.759), and having a high frequency of seizures (AOR = 5.192, 95% CI: 1.574, 17.126) were significantly associated factors with quality of life. Lack of social support, a fear of drug side effects, and worry about their disease were findings from the qualitative perspective added to the perspective of the quantitative findings. ConclusionOne in every two patients with epilepsy in this study had a poor quality of life. Being single, the frequency of seizures, and a lack of social support all have a significant association. Public health initiatives should continue to strive to create positive awareness of epilepsy in society in addition to managing the clinical aspect of the disease.

Assessment of epilepsy awareness, knowledge, and attitudes among preclinical and clinical medical students in the West Bank of Palestine

ObjectiveThe purpose of this research was to evaluate the level of epilepsy-related awareness, knowledge, and attitude exhibited by medical students at a specific medical school in Palestine, as well as the students' reactions to the treatment and social activities provided to patients with epilepsy. MethodsA cross-sectional, observational research of 306 medical students at An-Najah National University in the West Bank, Palestine, was conducted. We used a validated survey taken from previous publications. We split the medical students into preclinical (2nd and 3rd year) and clinical (4th, 5th, and 6th year) groups to see if there were significant differences in their awareness, knowledge, attitude, and their practices toward patients with epilepsy. Several elements, such as sociodemographics, awareness, knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding epilepsy, were included in the survey. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 29.0. Quantitative data were expressed as mean and standard deviation, whereas qualitative data as frequencies and percentages. The chi-square test was used to compare groups.Any P-value below 0.05 was considered statistically significant. ResultsIn general, clinical medical students exhibited better epilepsy awareness, knowledge, and attitude than preclinical students. Of note, 73.6% of clinical students believe epilepsy is a treatable disorder, compared to 44.6% of preclinical students (P-value < 0.001). Some students believe that depression/anxiety (39.6%), psychosis (35.7%), jinns (evil spirit) (7.8%), evil eye (5.8%), and punishment from God (4.5%) cause epilepsy. Clinical students were more likely than preclinical students to have rotated in a neurology clinic or department (40% vs. 4.6%, P-value < 0.001). In total, 95.5% of clinical students and 86.9% of preclinical students (P-value = 0.006) thought patients with epilepsy should marry. Clinical stage students were more likely than preclinical stage students to think that patients with epilepsy can have children (92.7% vs. 83.1%, P-value = 0.009). Preclinical stage students were more likely than clinical stage students to believe that students with epilepsy should not play sports (22.3% versus 13%, P-value = 0.030). Generally, there were no significant gender differences in awareness, knowledge, and attitudes. ConclusionThe study found that medical students knew little about epilepsy types, causes, triggers, and first aid. Negative attitudes toward people with epilepsy living alone and discrimination against people with epilepsy were also observed. Students' perceptions of this prevalent disease must be improved through educational programs that provide increased opportunities for clinical exposure to this condition as well as proper inclusion of epilepsy in the regular curriculum.

Awareness of social care needs in people with epilepsy and intellectual disability

BackgroundNearly a quarter of people with intellectual disability (ID) have epilepsy with large numbers experiencing drug-resistant epilepsy, and premature mortality. To mitigate epilepsy risks the environment and social care needs, particularly in professional care settings, need to be met. PurposeTo compare professional care groups as regards their subjective confidence and perceived responsibility when managing the need of people with ID and epilepsy. MethodA multi-agency expert panel developed a questionnaire with embedded case vignettes with quantitative and qualitative elements to understand training and confidence in the health and social determinants of people with ID and epilepsy. The cross-sectional survey was disseminated amongst health and social care professionals working with people with ID in the UK using an exponential non-discriminative snow-balling methodology. Group comparisons were undertaken using suitable statistical tests including Fisher’s exact, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney. Bonferroni correction was applied to significant (p < 0.05) results. Content analysis was conducted and relevant categories and themes were identified. ResultsSocial and health professionals (n = 54) rated their confidence to manage the needs of people with ID and epilepsy equally. Health professionals showed better awareness (p < 0.001) of the findings/recommendations of the latest evidence on premature deaths and identifying and managing epilepsy-related risks, including the relevance of nocturnal monitoring. The content analysis highlighted the need for clearer roles, improved care pathways, better epilepsy-specific knowledge, increased resources, and better multi-disciplinary work. ConclusionsA gap exists between health and social care professionals in awareness of epilepsy needs for people with ID, requiring essential training and national pathways.