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Kerkez M, Vural Ö. The association of perceived stigma, religiosity, and paranormal beliefs in parents of children with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 155:109789. [PMID: 38640723 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between stigma perception, religiosity, and paranormal beliefs in parents of children with epilepsy. METHODS The sample of this cross-sectional study consisted of 103 parents of children with epilepsy registered at a state hospital in a city with middle socio-economic status located in southeastern Türkiye. The data were collected using descriptive information forms for parents and children with epilepsy, the Parent Stigma Scale, the Religious Attitude Scale, and the Paranormal Belief Scale. The Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance, and Spearman's correlation analysis were used to assess the data. RESULTS The results of the study revealed that while 78.6 % of the parents were female, 59.2 % of the children with epilepsy were boys. Total mean scores of the participants were 18.48 ± 4.84 in the Parent Stigma Scale, 51.73 ± 14.15 in the Classical (Non-Religious) Paranormal Beliefs Dimension, and 33.89 ± 6.55 in the Religious Attitude Scale. A weak positive correlation was found between total mean scores of the Parent Stigma Scale, the Paranormal Belief Scale and the Religious Attitude Scale (p < 0.05). However, there was no statistically significant correlation between the mean scores of the Paranormal Belief Scale and the Religiosity Attitude Scale (p > 0.05). All of the three scales were positively correlated with the age of the parents and the duration of the illness (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION In this study, it was observed that while the parents had high levels of stigma perception and religious attitudes, they had moderate attitudes toward paranormal beliefs. While no direct correlation was found between religious attitudes and paranormal beliefs, cognitive inclinations toward religion were negatively correlated with paranormal beliefs. Additionally, the parents who perceived a higher level of stigma were more likely to hold stronger religious attitudes and beliefs related to various aspects of paranormal events. In the light of these findings, it is recommended to design educational programs and information campaigns aimed at reducing social stigma and raising awareness about epilepsy in such a way as to take individual belief systems into considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Müjde Kerkez
- Şırnak University/ Faculty of Health Sciences/ Department of Health Nursing, Türkiye; Gaziantep Cengiz Gökçek Gynecology and Pediatrics Hospital, Türkiye.
| | - Özlem Vural
- Şırnak University/ Faculty of Health Sciences/ Department of Health Nursing, Türkiye; Gaziantep Cengiz Gökçek Gynecology and Pediatrics Hospital, Türkiye
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Algahtani R, Khateeb F, Khateb F, Alhazmi AS, Alshareef BA, Fatani BA. Public Awareness of Epilepsy and Social Attitude Toward Persons With Epilepsy Among the General Population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2024; 16:e57398. [PMID: 38694680 PMCID: PMC11061814 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 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. AIM This study aims to assess public awareness and social attitudes toward patients with epilepsy among the general population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted, targeting the general population of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected anonymously from participants 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. RESULTS 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. CONCLUSION 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami Algahtani
- Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, SAU
| | | | - Fawaz Khateb
- Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, SAU
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Yilmazel G. Teachers' Negative Attitudes and Limited Health Literacy Levels as Risks for Low Awareness of Epilepsy in Turkey. J Prev Med Public Health 2023; 56:573-582. [PMID: 37974059 DOI: 10.3961/jpmph.23.330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES 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. METHODS This study was conducted in a city in Turkey with 1408 public school teachers from June 2021 to September 2021. RESULTS 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). CONCLUSIONS 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulay Yilmazel
- Hitit University Faculty of Health Science, Çorum, Turkey
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Alharthi AS, Alzahrani SA, Alharbi AA, Al Thobaiti LY, Alghamdi YS, Al Shumrani KM, Alghamdi MA, Alghamdi NK, Alzahrani SS, Alharbi SA, Alghamdi AA, Alghamdi KS. Parents' Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitude Toward Children With Epilepsy in the Al Baha Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e48057. [PMID: 38034192 PMCID: PMC10687487 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Epilepsy is a prevalent pediatric neurological disorder, with widespread implications globally. Parents' knowledge and attitudes toward their epileptic children play a pivotal role in the well-being and management of the condition. Despite its prevalence in Saudi Arabia, awareness and perceptions vary across communities. Objective This study aimed to assess parents' knowledge, awareness, and attitudes toward children with epilepsy in the Al Baha region of Saudi Arabia. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in the Al Baha region from November 2022 to January 2023. An anonymous, self-administered questionnaire was distributed among 390 parents, targeting those aged 18-60 years. Results While the majority recognized that epilepsy is not contagious, misconceptions persisted. Nearly 67.7% of families lacked clarity on the causes of epilepsy. Most believed in the potential curability of epilepsy, favoring medication as the primary treatment. A significant association was identified between having an epileptic child and knowledge of seizure-first aid. The majority held an optimistic view regarding the academic and extracurricular achievements of epileptic children. Conclusion The study highlights a mix of informed and misinformed beliefs among parents in the Al Baha region. While many perspectives were encouraging, certain misconceptions underlined the need for continued awareness campaigns and educational initiatives. Addressing these gaps is essential for providing comprehensive care and inclusion of children with epilepsy in the community.
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Asnakew S, Legas G, Belete A, Beyene GM, Tedla A, Shiferaw K, Mengist B, Bayih WA, Feleke DG, Birhane BM, Chanie ES, Birhan Z, Birkie M, Yitbarek GY. Epileptic seizure first aid practices of publics in Northwest Ethiopia 2021: Unsafe practices of nearly three-fourths of the community. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1032479. [PMID: 36457871 PMCID: PMC9705738 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1032479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Religious and sociocultural beliefs influence how people with epilepsy (PWE) are treated and cared for. Many communities in Africa and other developing countries, including Ethiopia, believe that epilepsy is caused by evil spirits and should be treated with herbal plants by traditional doctors and religious leaders. The combination of these sociocultural beliefs and the level of community awareness of epilepsy affect first aid practices in the management of epileptic seizures. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess epileptic seizure first aid practice of public and its associated factors in Northwest Ethiopia, south Gondar zone, Amhara, Ethiopia 2021. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a previously adapted standard questionnaire. A multistage cluster sampling technique was applied. A total of 756 participants were approached and 741 respondents completed the questionnaire with a response rate of 98.02%. Data were entered into Epi data version 4.4.2 and then exported to Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 24 for analysis. Descriptive and analytical statistical procedures and bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regressions with odds ratios and 95% confidence interval (CI) were employed. The level of significance of the association was determined at p < 0.05. RESULTS Overall, 71.7% (95%CI: 68.3, 74.9) of the south Gondar community had unsafe practice measures in managing patients with seizure episodes. Individuals who were illiterate [adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 1.99, 95%CI: 1.00.3.97] and participants who did not take training related to epilepsy (AOR = 2.07, 95%CI: 1.35, 3.17) and had poor knowledge about (AOR = 1.51, 95%CI: 1.06, 2.14) and a negative attitude toward epilepsy (AOR = 2.20, 95%CI: 1.50, 3.22) had unsafe practices compared to their counterparts. Conversely, participants who reached secondary education had safe practice measures (AOR = 0.4, 95%CI: 0.26, 0.63) in the management of epileptic seizures. CONCLUSIONS In this study, large numbers of the south Gondar community had unsafe practice measures in managing people with epileptic seizure episodes. Greater emphasis should be laid on individuals who were illiterate, in the provision of health education and/or training for the community to help them to acquire good knowledge about epilepsy and develop a positive attitude toward epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sintayehu Asnakew
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Getasew Legas
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Amsalu Belete
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Getnet Mihretie Beyene
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Assasahegn Tedla
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Kirubel Shiferaw
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Birhanu Mengist
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Wubet Alebachew Bayih
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Dejen Getaneh Feleke
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Binyam Minuye Birhane
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Ermias Sisay Chanie
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Zelalem Birhan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Mengesha Birkie
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Getachew Yideg Yitbarek
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
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Marital status among patients with epilepsy in Saudi Arabia. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 126:108452. [PMID: 34864382 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
There are no adequate studies on Saudi Arabia regarding the effect of the social environment on marriage among people with epilepsy (PWE). To fill this gap in the literature, we investigated the marital status of PWE to determine the factors affecting their marital prospects. The subjects of the study included PWE aged 18 years or above, recruited between 1998 and 2019 from the Epilepsy Registry of King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We collected a wide range of socio-demographic data on age, gender, location, education level, employment status, and marital status. In total, 1857 PWE, comprising 1086 men (58.48%) and 771 women (41.52%), were enrolled in the study. The data analysis showed that those 'married' and those who 'had been married' comprised 46.96% of the sample, while those 'never married' comprised 53.04%; 65.37% of the sample held a 'high school diploma or less' or had 'no education', 26.85% reported ongoing university education or had already obtained a bachelor's or higher degree; 50.08% of the respondents were employed, while 47.98% were not. Of the sample, 40.28% resided in Riyadh, whereas 13.14% were from the Asir region. We found that socio-demographic factors, especially employment status, had a major influence on the marital prospects of PWE.
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Aldosary WS, Heena H, El-Bakri NK. Psychological self-security and self-concept among Saudi epilepsy patients at a tertiary care center in KSA. J Family Med Prim Care 2021; 10:3888-3891. [PMID: 34934697 PMCID: PMC8653478 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_261_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 09/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: While psychological issues in epilepsy patients have been studied extensively, the phenomena of self-concept and self-security have not been adequately addressed in such patients. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to assess the levels of psychological self-security and self-concept among Saudi epilepsy patients. Methods: A case-control study was conducted on adult patients with epilepsy from the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit at King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Healthy controls were obtained from the community. Demographic data including age, gender and education level were collected. Self-concept and self-security were assessed using validated scales. Descriptive statistics were obtained, and inferential testing was conducted. Results: Data from 145 subjects was entered in the final analysis, including 100 patients with epilepsy and 45 controls (females = 32%). A significantly higher level of psychological insecurity was found in PWE (people with epilepsy) compared to controls. No significant difference was noticed on self-concept level between PWE versus controls. Education level was significantly lower in PWE than in controls. Those with higher education levels scored lower on psychological insecurity, although this effect disappeared when the data were split by health status. Conclusion: Level of psychological self-security was higher in PWE than controls, while no difference in self-concept was observed. This study highlights the areas of focus needed in epilepsy-related social services in order to improve the psychological wellbeing of patients with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wardah S Aldosary
- Department of Mental Health, National Neurosciences Institutes, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, KSA
| | | | - Nahid K El-Bakri
- Department of Mental Health, National Neurosciences Institutes, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, KSA
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Alzhrani SH, AlSufyani MH, Abdullah RI, Almalki S. Schoolteacher's knowledge, attitudes, and practice toward student with epilepsy in Taif, Saudi Arabia: Cross-sectional study. J Family Med Prim Care 2021; 10:2668-2678. [PMID: 34568153 PMCID: PMC8415690 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_2087_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, teachers have misconceptions about epilepsy and its management. Little is known about Saudi Teachers' knowledge about epilepsy in Taif City. Method Descriptive questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey of a sample of schoolteachers in Taif Governate. Results The study included (n = 420) schoolteachers. All heard about epilepsy and (n = 116, 27.6%) knew about epilepsy from an afflicted individual, and (n = 102, 24.3%) from social media outlets. Most teachers believed that an epileptic fit constitutes seizures (n = 370, 88.1%). Some (n = 330, 78.6%) were not satisfied with their knowledge level. Attitudes were positively associated with years of experience, but, generally, were only modest with 50.2% fearful of having an epileptic child in class. The mean practice score was 6.9 (out of 15). Practice was improved by having a pupil with epilepsy in class. Discussion and Conclusion Schoolteachers in Taif showed excellent crude knowledge about epilepsy. However, knowledge of crucial details of the disorder were poor. This could be due to reliance on social media for information. There was high level of insight among schoolteachers regarding their sub-optimum knowledge levels. Knowledge was much better among experienced schoolteachers. Witnessing an epileptic fit improved knowledge. Teachers' attitudes toward epilepsy were negative, likely because of significant epilepsy-related stigma. Years of experience were significantly associated with increased attitude score. Schoolteachers' actual practice in handling epilepsy cases was below-expectation. There is pressing need for high-quality workshops to address knowledge and practice deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hasan Alzhrani
- Department of Family Medicine, Al-Hada Armed Forces Hospital, Taif City, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Rehab Ismail Abdullah
- Department of Family Medicine, Al-Hada Armed Forces Hospital, Taif City, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sultan Almalki
- Department of Family Medicine, Al-Hada Armed Forces Hospital, Taif City, Saudi Arabia
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AlHarbi FA, Alomari MS, Ghaddaf AA, Abdulhamid AS, Alsharef JF, Makkawi S. Public awareness and attitudes toward epilepsy in Saudi Arabia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 124:108314. [PMID: 34592634 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Public awareness of epilepsy and attitudes toward people with epilepsy (PWE) largely affect patients' perceived stigma and their quality of life. Educational interventions to increase public awareness of the disease need to target areas of lowest awareness levels to achieve best results. The aim of this review was to identify these areas in Saudi Arabia. METHODS This review was based on PRISMA guidelines. Medline, PsychInfo, Embase, Ovid Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews, and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant literature. Inclusion criteria was cross-sectional studies that are done in Saudi Arabia, assess any aspect of epilepsy awareness or attitudes toward PWE, and report outcomes in proportions. Meta-analysis was done on outcomes reported in ≥5 studies utilizing random-effects model. Quality assessment was done using AXIS tool. RESULTS Twenty-seven studies were included in this review. A total of 48 questions' outcomes were reported in ≥3 studies, and 26 of them were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis estimated that 6.4% (CI 4.2-9.7%) of the population think epilepsy is a contagious disease; 90.7% (CI 85.5-94.1%) have heard/read about epilepsy; 53.1% (CI 47.7-58.3%) have witnessed a seizure; 38.6% (CI 24.7-54.7%) think epilepsy is a psychological disorder; 25.2% (CI 16.5-36.7%) think it is caused by spirit possession; 35.1% (CI 22.0-50.8%) were estimated to think it is caused by evil eye (envy); 37.9% (CI 21.9-57.0%) would try to put something inside a seizing patient's mouth to prevent tongue biting; 34.6% (CI 26.9-43.1%) would approve their offspring marrying someone with epilepsy. CONCLUSION Areas of unsatisfactory awareness levels included etiology of epilepsy and appropriate seizure responses. Attitudes were more negative regarding marriage, children, and employment. These areas need to be properly addressed in future educational interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad A AlHarbi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohammed S Alomari
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Ghaddaf
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed S Abdulhamid
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jawaher F Alsharef
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Seraj Makkawi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medicine, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Determination of health fatalism and the factors affecting health fatalism in patients with epilepsy in the North of Turkey. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 115:107641. [PMID: 33341394 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In individuals with epilepsy, health fatalism can affect their perceptions of health and their responses to solutions offered, both positively and negatively. This study aimed to investigate health fatalism in people with epilepsy in Turkey and the factors that influence their health fatalism. METHOD This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2019 and April 2020 with 100 epilepsy patients who were referred to a neurology outpatient clinic in the North of Turkey. The data for the study were collected using a descriptive information form and the Health Fatalism Scale (HES). RESULTS The total mean score on the Health Fatalism Scale for the study participants was found to be 56,16 ± 15,71. Significant association was found between health fatalism and educational status (p < 0,05), polytherapy (p < 0,05), and frequency of seizures (p < 0,001). CONCLUSION In this study, individuals with epilepsy expressed high levels of fatalism in their health beliefs. It was found that illiterate individuals with epilepsy held more fatalistic beliefs. In addition, it was found that participants who used polytherapy and those who had frequent seizures also had higher levels of fatalistic health beliefs.
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Algahtani H, Shirah B, Alzahrani A, Shaheen M. Perception and Attitude of the General Population towards Epilepsy in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. J Epilepsy Res 2019; 9:42-50. [PMID: 31482056 PMCID: PMC6706646 DOI: 10.14581/jer.19005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose There are several conflicting beliefs about epilepsy, and public awareness about this disease varies widely among different countries. The present study aimed to determine public perception and attitude regarding different aspects of epilepsy in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In addition, we aim to identify the cultural and religious beliefs in Saudi Arabia associated with the causes and treatment of epilepsy. Methods This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted between January 2018 and June 2018 in malls and public places in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This study utilized a self-administered questionnaire composed of 40 items. Results A total of 1,940 individuals participated in the study, of which 1,675 participants (86.3%) had previously heard about epilepsy. Approximately 60% of the participants believed that epilepsy was caused by a brain disease and 17.1% believed that it is a genetic disease. Over 50% of the participants believed that epilepsy is treated with medications, 31.5% believed that it can be treated by the recitation of Quran, and 16.2% believed that it can be treated by surgery, while 10.2% believe that there is no treatment. Conclusions The results of the present study suggest that awareness about epilepsy in the general public should be raised to avoid a negative impact on the patients, their families, their communities, and the healthcare system. Several misconceptions were identified, particularly in the etiology and management of the disease. Increased awareness will help in the early diagnosis, appropriate care, and management of the patients, and lead to better social acceptance. Dissemination of information about epilepsy through social media should be considered to reach a great proportion of the general public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Algahtani
- King Abdulaziz Medical City, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bader Shirah
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alhussain Alzahrani
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mostafa Shaheen
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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