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Wang X, Ye J, Tian X, Wang F, Guo X. Affiliate stigma and caregiver burden in parents of children with epilepsy. Prev Med Rep 2024; 41:102686. [PMID: 38524275 PMCID: PMC10960130 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate the current status of affiliated stigma and caregiver burden among parents of children with epilepsy, analyze their correlation, and identify factors influencing affiliated stigma. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 194 parents of children with epilepsy who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria in Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province, China. Data were collected through questionnaires, including a demographic information sheet, an affiliated stigma scale, and a caregiver burden scale. Results The results revealed that parents of children with epilepsy experienced a moderate level of affiliated stigma, with an average score of 54.92 ± 10.44. Similarly, caregiver burden scores fell within the moderate range, with an average score of 44.14 ± 16.02. Factors influencing affiliated stigma scores included the frequency of epileptic seizures in children, the types of anti-epileptic medications taken by children, and the place of residence. The total caregiver burden score and scores in various dimensions (emotional, cognitive, and behavioral) of caregivers for epilepsy patients were positively correlated with the affiliated stigma score. Affiliated stigma was found to independently explain 21.3 % of the variation in caregiver burden. Conclusion In the future, healthcare professionals should develop targeted interventions for children with epilepsy and their parents to reduce affiliated stigma, decrease caregiver burden, and enhance the caregiving capabilities of parents of children with epilepsy. These measures are essential to improve the overall well-being of both parents and children affected by epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyanan Wang
- Neurology Department, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 518026 Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jinghua Ye
- Neurology Department, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 518026 Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaoqin Tian
- Neurology Department, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 518026 Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fangping Wang
- Neurology Department, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 518026 Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaocui Guo
- Neurology Department, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 518026 Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
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Akbari H, Mohammadi M, Hosseini A. Disease-Related Stigma, Stigmatizers, Causes, and Consequences: A Systematic Review. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 52:2042-2054. [PMID: 37899929 PMCID: PMC10612557 DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v52i10.13842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Background Stigma is a sociological concept that is important in medicine and health because it threatens health as much as the disease itself. We aimed to explore the causes, stigmatizers, consequences and coping strategies related to the stigma of diseases by systematically analyzing relevant literature. Methods This systematic review examined 65 articles on Disease-Related Stigma by searching Noormags, Magiran, SID, Google Scholar, and PubMed databases. The articles were published in Persian and English between 2001 and 2022 and conducted in Iran. We used a three-step systematic review process to select articles that met the research criteria. Results Conflict in society, lack of knowledge, specific characteristics of the disease, and the contagious nature of disease are the main causes of stigma, leading to stigmatization by different groups such as significant others, generalized others, institutional others, and macro others. Patients experiencing stigma face various psychological, physical, and social complications, and they may use concealment as a coping strategy, which can pose a potential threat to society's general health. Conclusion By knowing the causes and stigmatizers of disease-related, it is possible to reduce stigma with less cost and time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Akbari
- Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahla Mohammadi
- Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Hosseini
- Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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Yu Z, Shao Q, Hou K, Wang Y, Sun X. The experiences of caregivers of children with epilepsy: A meta-synthesis of qualitative research studies. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:987892. [PMID: 36177220 PMCID: PMC9513543 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.987892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological disorders in children. The caregivers of these children bear heavy burden of care in the process of taking care of them. The objective of this metasynthesis was to explore the experiences and needs of caregivers of children with epilepsy. Methods and data sources Eight databases (PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP database, and CBM) were searched for qualitative studies from each database's inception to 31 June 2021. Studies were critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. Qualitative data were extracted, summarized, and meta-synthesized. Results 13 studies were included, covering the data of 316 participants. 36 research results were extracted from these studies, which were combined into 11 categories, and finally formed 4 themes: (a) heavy burden of care; (b) emotional experience; (c) coping strategies; (d) care needs. Conclusion Caregivers beared a heavy burden of care and psychological burden. Despite the adoption of different coping strategies, their emotional distress was still very serious. Caregivers had unmet care needs. In order to improve caregivers' care capacity, the society and healthcare workers need to provide them with information support, psychological support, and take measures to create a friendly medical and living environment for them. Impact Understanding the experiences of caregivers of children with epilepsy will inform future research and practice. Healthcare workers could develop interventions to reduce caregiver burden and improve the level of caregivers' mental health. On the other hand, effective programs should be designed to improve caregivers' knowledge of the disease and enhance their ability to care. Society needs to take steps to improve the medical environment and the social stigma that is not friendly to epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Yu
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qinwen Shao
- Wuhan University of Bioengineering, Wuhan, China
| | - Kunhua Hou
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | | | - Xianghong Sun
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Legesse E, Nigussie T, Kebede Y, Aman M, Chaka M, Tilahun D. What is the community's knowledge and understanding regarding epilepsy? Epilepsy knowledge and its determinants among residents of Debub Bench District, Bench Sheko Zone, Southwest Ethiopia, 2019: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e052480. [PMID: 35105625 PMCID: PMC8804647 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is a neurological condition marked by recurring seizures. People with epilepsy, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries, are stigmatised due to a lack of understanding and a negative attitude towards the disease. Increased public awareness of epilepsy will aid in the search for therapy and the quality of life of the patients. The study aimed to assess knowledge about epilepsy and the associated factors among residents of Debub Bench District, Bench Sheko Zone, Southwest Ethiopia in 2020. SETTING This community-based, cross-sectional study triangulated with qualitative method was conducted from 25 April 2020 to 20 May 2020. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 601 participants. A structured and interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were entered in EpiData Manager V.4.0.2.101 and exported to SPSS V.23 for analyses. Multivariable logistic regression was carried out to identify the factors associated with knowledge of epilepsy. A p value of <0.05 was taken to indicate statistical significance. RESULTS A total of 601 respondents participated, of whom 340 (56.6%) were male. The mean age of the respondents was 34.84±11.42 years. The proportion with good knowledge of epilepsy was 55.1%. Factors associated with good knowledge of epilepsy were attending primary education (adjusted OR (AOR)=2.06, 95% CI 1.27 to 3.34), secondary education (AOR=5.01, 95% CI 2.62 to 9.58), above secondary education (AOR=5.67, 95% CI 2.35 to 13.69), being in high wealth index (AOR=1.74, 95% CI 1.09 to 2.78), being a government employee (AOR=3.69, 95% CI 1.39 to 9.83), being a merchant (AOR=3.16, 95% CI 1.80 to 5.54) and being an urban resident (AOR=2.15, 95% CI 1.36 to 3.42). CONCLUSION Only 55% of the residents have sufficient knowledge about epilepsy. Factors associated with knowledge of epilepsy were educational status, wealth index, occupation and residence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yohannes Kebede
- Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Mamusha Aman
- Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Mulugeta Chaka
- Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Dejene Tilahun
- Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Bhwana D, Das L, Siewe Fodjo JN, Francis F, Challe DP, Makunde HW, Mmbando BP, Colebunders R. A peer support group intervention to decrease epilepsy-related stigma in an onchocerciasis-endemic area in Mahenge, Tanzania: A pilot study. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 124:108372. [PMID: 34757262 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A high burden of epilepsy has been reported in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) particularly in onchocerciasis endemic areas. To improve the quality of life of persons with epilepsy (PWE) in Mahenge, an onchocerciasis-endemic area in Tanzania, we established peer support groups (PSG) in two out of four rural villages (Mdindo, Msogezi, Mzelezi and Sali). One year later (between February and July 2020), we carried out a cross-sectional survey among PWE and their caregivers in the four rural villages with the aim of comparing perceived stigma among PWE in study sites with and without PSG. Perceived stigma was measured using the validated Kilifi stigma scale of epilepsy (KSSE), whose total score ranges from 0-30. A generalized linear mixed regression model was used to identify factors associated with high stigma scores. A total of 161 PWE participated in the study; 76 (47.2%) resided in villages where a PSG intervention was implemented. The overall mean stigma score was 3.7 ± 4.6, with no significant difference between villages with and without PSG (p = 0.537). Only one PWE (0.6%) scored above 20 (very high perceived stigma). Experiencing more seizures during the past week (Coef = 1.013 [0.568, 1.457]), having attended school (Coef = 1.821 0.345, 3.297], and a history of physical abuse (Coef = 3.200 [0.574, 5.827]) were associated with higher stigma scores. Perceived stigma in rural villages in Mahenge is a major public health problem. A follow-up study is needed to determine the medium- to long-term effect of the PSG intervention on perceived epilepsy-related stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Bhwana
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, Tanga, Tanzania; Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lies Das
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Filbert Francis
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, Tanga, Tanzania
| | - Daniel P Challe
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, Tanga, Tanzania
| | - Holmes W Makunde
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, Tanga, Tanzania
| | - Bruno P Mmbando
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, Tanga, Tanzania
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Shi Y, Liu S, Wang J, Li C, Zhang J. Stigma experienced by patients with epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 118:107926. [PMID: 33862535 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy, one of the most common and serious chronic neurological diseases, is accompanied by a series of complex psychosocial problems. A number of qualitative studies have investigated the stigma experiences among patients with epilepsy (PWE). However, the findings are different and complementary to a certain degree. We conducted a systematic review to investigate and synthesize existing qualitative research findings to fully identify stigma experienced by PWE. The aim was to develop anti-stigma interventions and reduce any adverse sequelae. OBJECTIVE To synthesize qualitative evidence on the stigma experiences of PWE. METHODS This was a systematic review and qualitative evidence synthesis guided by the Joanna Briggs Methodology. Systematic literature search for primary studies was conducted in PubMed, PsychINFO, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases until December 2019. Findings from the included qualitative studies were extracted, assessed for quality, and aggregated using meta-synthesis. RESULTS Twenty-six studies were included in the review. Four distinct synthesized findings were identified from the original researches: 'stigma experienced in daily life'; 'stigma perceived from others'; 'psychological reactions to stigma'; and 'strategies to address stigma'. CONCLUSION The present meta-synthesis thoroughly investigated the stigma experienced by PWE. The findings suggest that appropriate multi-level interventions targeting the general public, health professionals, caregivers, and patients themselves are warranted to reduce the harmful impacts of stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shi
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sha Liu
- Department of Hematology, Union Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Department of Nursing, Internal Hospital of Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - June Zhang
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Jada SR, Siewe Fodjo JN, Abd-Elfarag G, Tionga M, Carter JY, Logora MY, Newton C, Colebunders R. Epilepsy-related stigma and cost in two onchocerciasis-endemic areas in South Sudan: A pilot descriptive study. Seizure 2020; 81:151-156. [PMID: 32810838 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epilepsy is a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in resource-limited rural villages where persons with epilepsy (PWE) are often confronted with a wide treatment gap, frequent stigma and high cost of epilepsy care. We investigated stigma and economic cost related to epilepsy in the states of Maridi and Amadi in South Sudan, two onchocerciasis endemic areas with high epilepsy prevalence. METHODS Between November 2019 and February 2020, community-based surveys were conducted in eight villages of Maridi and Amadi States. Consenting PWE were identified via a door-to-door approach, and perceived stigma was assessed using the validated Kilifi stigma scale. Additional data about household income, as well as epilepsy-related direct and indirect costs were collected. RESULTS 239 PWE were recruited (95 from Maridi, 144 from Amadi). Stigma scores were higher in Maridi compared to Amadi (mean scores: 13.9 vs 6.5, p < 0.001). Mean weighted epilepsy costs per month in Maridi (38.4 USD) were double those observed in Amadi (17.6 USD). The main epilepsy-related expenditure was the purchase of anti-epileptic drugs (AED). Stigma scores correlated with epilepsy cost (Spearman-rho = 0.24, p < 0.001) and were positively associated with traditional medicine use (regression estimate = 1.9; p = 0.027). CONCLUSION In rural South Sudan, PWE and their families often experienced stigma from the community. Higher perceived stigma was associated with traditional medicine use, which increased the overall cost of epilepsy management. Demystifying epilepsy and making AED more accessible would improve the quality of life of PWE and their families, and reduce the economic burden of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gasim Abd-Elfarag
- Department of Global Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Makoy Yibi Logora
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Ministry of Health, Juba, South Sudan
| | - Charles Newton
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kenya Medical Research, Institute and Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
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Zengin M, Yayan EH, Akıncı A. Difficulties Experienced by Turkish Parents and Their Coping Strategies: Children With Mucopolysaccharidosis. J Pediatr Nurs 2020; 53:e142-e148. [PMID: 32217000 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2020.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to determine the parents' lived experiences whose children have Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) by using Husserl's phenomenology. DESIGN AND METHODS A phenomenology method was used as a qualitative research design in the study. The study included parents of 10 children who received weekly enzyme replacement therapy at a university hospital's paediatric endocrinology clinic. The data were collected using an in-depth interview method including an introductory information form and a semi-structured interview form. The interviews were recorded on a voice recorder and converted into written documents after the interview. RESULTS The average age of the children was 8.8 ± 1.8; the average age of the mothers was 32.6 ± 3.6; and the average age of the fathers was 36.0 ± 3.5. The data analysis identified the following three main themes: (1) difficulties, (2) concerns, and (3) coping. CONCLUSIONS This study determined that parents of children with an MPS diagnosis had many difficulties related to multi-systemic problems (orthopaedic problems, vision and hearing problems, speech disorders, cardiac problems) caused by the disease. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Parents should receive support from healthcare professionals to develop coping strategies that are appropriate for the physical and psychological difficulties experienced and to comply with the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mürşide Zengin
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Adıyaman University, Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Emriye Hilal Yayan
- Department of Child Health and Disease Nursing, Nursing Faculty, İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ayşehan Akıncı
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, İnönü University, Turgut Özal Medical Center, Malatya, Turkey
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Siewe Fodjo JN, Dekker MCJ, Idro R, Mandro MN, Preux PM, Njamnshi AK, Colebunders R. Comprehensive management of epilepsy in onchocerciasis-endemic areas: lessons learnt from community-based surveys. Infect Dis Poverty 2019; 8:11. [PMID: 30738437 PMCID: PMC6368958 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-019-0523-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Onchocerciasis-endemic regions are known to have a high epilepsy prevalence. Limited resources in these areas and poor access to healthcare by persons with epilepsy (PWE) result in a wide anti-epileptic treatment gap, poor seizure control and a high burden of seizure-related complications. Recent community-based surveys highlight the need for epilepsy management strategies suitable for remote onchocerciasis-endemic villages to ensure better health outcomes for PWE. In this paper, we propose a feasible approach to manage PWE in such settings. MAIN TEXT Improved management of PWE in onchocerciasis-endemic areas may be achieved by decentralizing epilepsy care. Simplified approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy may be used by non-physicians, under the supervision of physicians or specialists. To reduce the treatment gap, a regular supply of subsidized anti-epileptic drugs (AED) appropriate for different types of onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy should be instituted. Setting up a community-based epilepsy surveillance system will enable early diagnosis and treatment of PWE thereby preventing complications. Community awareness programs on epilepsy must be implemented to reduce stigma and facilitate the social rehabilitation of PWE. Finally, strengthening onchocerciasis elimination programs by optimizing community-directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI) and considering alternative treatment strategies might reduce the incidence of epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS A community-based approach with task-shifting of epilepsy care from specialists to non-physician health workers will reduce epilepsy-associated morbidity. Increased advocacy and collaboration with various stakeholders is needed to establish a sustainable, cost-effective chronic care model for epilepsy that will significantly improve the quality of life of PWE in onchocerciasis-endemic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marieke C. J. Dekker
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
- Department of Neurology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Richard Idro
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michel Ndahura Mandro
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Provincial Health Division Ituri, Ministry of Health, Bunia, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- INSERM, Univ. Limoges, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, 87000, Limoges, CHU, UMR 1094 Limoges, France
| | - Alfred K. Njamnshi
- Department of Neurology, Yaoundé Central Hospital / FMBS, The University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN), Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Jaitovich Groisman I, Hurlimann T, Godard B. Parents of a child with epilepsy: Views and expectations on receiving genetic results from Whole Genome Sequencing. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 90:178-190. [PMID: 30583270 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The use of Next Generation Sequencing technologies (NGS), such as Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), is expected to improve the often complex and protracted course of treatment of patients with epilepsy by providing an earlier and more accurate diagnosis. As part of the "Personalized medicine in the treatment of epilepsy" project, which aimed to determine whether WGS could be used as a valuable "diagnostic tool" in pharmacoresistant epilepsies, we examined parents' expectations, hopes, and concerns upon receiving results related to their child's epilepsy, comorbidities, resistance to medication, and genetic information on unrelated conditions, and how these results could impact their and their child's life. METHODS Parents of 32 children participating in the genetic study completed either paper or online questionnaires. A descriptive analysis of responses and comments was conducted regarding parents' experience with their child's epilepsy, as well as their views on WGS, and expectations and concerns surrounding such test results. RESULTS Most respondents had trouble explaining the medical causes of their child's epilepsy (n = 27), and a majority (n = 26) feared that their child may be treated unjustly because of their epilepsy, although some acknowledged that their child had never actually been treated unjustly (n = 13). A majority of respondents had also experienced feelings of guilt due to their child's epilepsy (n = 23), and some expected WGS results to have an impact on those feelings. The anticipation of benefits for their child was the parents' primary reason to get involved in a genomic research project, closely followed by altruism. A majority expressed strong intentions to receive as many WGS results as possible, considering that any could be beneficial for them and their child, even when mutations were not found. Respondents were divided as to how and when to tell their child that they might have newly discovered predispositions to develop another disease. In proportion, more parents expressed concerns about sharing unexpected results with their family members compared with sharing results linked to epilepsy, comorbidities, and pharmacoresistance. CONCLUSION Our results reinforce the importance of having clear guidelines to help parents manage their expectations and better navigate the complexities of receiving and sharing WGS results. Despite the small size of our sample, we believe that our results are meaningful to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thierry Hurlimann
- Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station Centre-ville, Montreal H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Béatrice Godard
- Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station Centre-ville, Montreal H3C 3J7, Canada.
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Dolo H, Mandro M, Wonya'Rossi D, Ngave F, Fraeyman J, Siewe JN, Suykerbuyk P, Colebunders R. Community perceptions of epilepsy and its treatment in an onchocerciasis endemic region in Ituri, Democratic Republic of Congo. Infect Dis Poverty 2018; 7:115. [PMID: 30509330 PMCID: PMC6278164 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-018-0498-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A recent study in the Logo and Rethy health zones in the Ituri Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) reported that the majority of the persons with epilepsy (PWE) had not been treated with anti-epileptic medication (AEM) or had stopped treatment. Prior to the implementation of an epilepsy treatment programme in these health zones, this study investigated the perceptions and experiences regarding epilepsy and its treatment amongst community leaders, PWE and/or their families, traditional healers and health professionals. Methods A total of 14 focus group discussions (FGD) and 39 semi-structured interviews (SSI) were conducted with PWE and/or their family members, community leaders, traditional healers, and health professionals in the Logo and Rethy health zones during February 2–19, 2017. Results In the two health zones, the clinical signs of convulsive epilepsy were recognized by community members. However, a variety of misconceptions about epilepsy were identified including the beliefs that epilepsy is a family-related condition, a contagious disease, is transmitted by insects, saliva or by touching a person of the same sex during seizures, or is caused by evil spirits and witchcraft. The role of traditional healers in spreading these beliefs was revealed. The study also reported sexual abuse on PWE, stigmatisation of PWE and loss of productivity of PWE and their families. Some PWE had been using AEM and traditional treatment but were not convinced about the efficacy of these treatment options. The lack of training of health providers about epilepsy care, financial barriers in obtaining AEM, and the shortage of AEM at primary health facilities were revealed. As remedies, the community requested access to a decentralized center for epilepsy treatment. They also proposed using churches and community health workers as communication channels for information about epilepsy. Conclusions Clinical signs of convulsive epilepsy were recognized by the community in the Logo and Rethy health zones but many misconceptions about epilepsy were identified. A comprehensive community-based epilepsy treatment programme with an affordable uninterrupted AEM supply needs to be established. Such a programme should address stigma, misconceptions, sexual abuse and foster the rehabilitation of PWE to alleviate poverty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Housseini Dolo
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium. .,International Center of Excellence in Research, Faculty of Medicine and Odonto Stomatology, Bamako, Mali.
| | - Michel Mandro
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Provincial Ministry of Health, Bunia, Ituri, Democratic Republic of the Congo.,Centre de Recherche en Maladies Tropicales de l'Ituri, Hopital General de Reference de Rethy, Rethy, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Deogratias Wonya'Rossi
- Provincial Ministry of Health, Bunia, Ituri, Democratic Republic of the Congo.,Centre de Recherche en Maladies Tropicales de l'Ituri, Hopital General de Reference de Rethy, Rethy, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Francoise Ngave
- Centre de Recherche en Maladies Tropicales de l'Ituri, Hopital General de Reference de Rethy, Rethy, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jessica Fraeyman
- Research Group Social Epidemiology and Health Policy, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Joseph N Siewe
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Do mentalization skills affect the perception of stigma in patients with epilepsy? Epilepsy Behav 2018; 88:49-53. [PMID: 30241053 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to study the relationship between the mentalizing ability and stigma in patients with epilepsy. METHODS Patients with epilepsy were administered the following battery of tests: Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) form, Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (Eyes Test), Stigma Scale of Epilepsy (SSE), Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness (ISMI) Scale, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). RESULTS Assessment of an association between the Eyes Test score, ISMI Scale total score, and subscale scores revealed a negative significant correlation of Eyes Test scores with approval of stereotypes, perceived discrimination, stigma resistance, and total score. Eyes Test score and BDI scores appears to be significant predictor of internalized stigma among the clinical variables that were studied. A positive significant correlation was detected between BDI score and alienation, perceived discrimination, and total score. CONCLUSION The presence of a correlation between the mentalization and stigma perception in our study demonstrates that these two concepts are connected and that this connection needs further study. In particular, mentalization-based therapy can have an effect on the reduction of the stigma perceptions and in this way can improve the course of the disease, potentially improving the patients' quality of life.
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