Abstracts

A paucity of information exists in the literature about perspectives on epilepsy educational campaigns from the patients[apos] point of view. Information is lacking on their opinions about what should be featured in such initiatives, how these awareness efforts should be conducted, and to whom to aim them. The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of epilepsy patients[apos] opinions and preferences on these issues., A survey was administered to 165 adults treated for epilepsy. Subjects were 18 years of age and older and were mostly female (62%) and Caucasian (82%). The 48-item survey included questions about the patient[apos]s thoughts on misperceptions of epilepsy in the general public and among other epilepsy patients, and what could be done to address these misperceptions. Descriptive frequencies were run for each variable, as well as measures of central tendency for continuous variables. Correlations and independent samples t-tests were run on selected variables., Results indicated that almost two-thirds (65%) of the sample believed that stress and problems in their lives would be alleviated if the public was better educated about epilepsy and seizures. Survey respondents thought the general public lacked adequate knowledge about epilepsy (90%) and that education and awareness is needed.
Common misperceptions in the public pertained to inappropriately reacting to seizures, believing that all epilepsy patients suffered from severe seizures, and that epilepsy is associated with a mental illness. Educational venues considered to be most effective for the public included television ads, medical offices, and workplace programs. Patients indicated that it was very important to include information about reacting to seizures and about epilepsy in general. Additional findings are provided.
The respondents (88%) were almost equally desirous of a campaign for individuals with epilepsy. The information perceived to be most useful in an education campaign for epilepsy patients pertained to treatment options and modalities, self-management of epilepsy, and general information about epilepsy. Medical offices and brochures were perceived to be the most effective modes of education promotion. Additional results are discussed., In summary, the need for epilepsy education and awareness campaigns among the general public as well as epilepsy patients is needed to help decrease stigma, according to the respondents in this study. The current study of patients[apos] views about epilepsy education and awareness needs provides a new perspective as well as an important foundation for the development of interventions.,