Abstracts

Rationale: Epilepsy is the commonest neurological disorder. It is still widely misunderstood. Lack of knowledge and negative perceptions about epilepsy seem to underlie the stigma felt by PWEs and families. Information on the understanding of the general population in the UAE towards epilepsy is limited. The aim of this study is to explore the current level of knowledge, attitude and practice towards PWEs among the multinational population of Al Ain. The results would help plan tailored public health campaigns that succeed in raising awareness among the population, rebutting negative and false beliefs, alleviating associated stigma and facilitating the acceptance of PWEs in the society.Methods: The study was carried out on a randomly selected sample of individuals above 15 years of age at Al Ain public areas. Health professionals and students were excluded. A 39-item scale questionnaire was developed through literature review. It was filled in during face-to-face interviews conducted by the researchers. All interviewers received prior training on interviewing potential candidates. Information leaflet, available in four languages (Arabic, Urdu, Hindi and English), about the study was provided to all participants prior to interviews.Results: A total of 583 participants were interviewed (71% between the age of 26 and 55 years, 58% females and 62% with a university education). The majority (51%) were Gulf countries citizens, followed by 29% from the Asian subcontinent. The participants had heard about epilepsy from different sources (Figure 1). The prevalence of epilepsy was estimated to be 1 in 1000 by 51%. The perceived causes of epilepsy are detailed in Figure 2. Low intelligence was thought to be associated with epilepsy by 20% of the participants, and 282 (48%) felt that young PWE should be educated in special schools. While 52 (9%) participants thought of epilepsy as a shameful condition, only 19 provided an explanation for that. Approximately 18% felt that PWEs were different from others. PWEs were thought to have reduced marriage opportunities by 37% of the candidates, for variable reasons. A total of 213 (37%) and 232 (40%) of participants were, respectively, against women and men with epilepsy having children; 299 (51%) stated that they would not employ a PWE and 310 (53%) would not work or study with a PWE. While 85% felt that a PWE should consult a medical doctor, 22% preferred consulting a religious therapist. Epilepsy was thought to be curable condition by 172 (30%) and 360 (62%) felt it is a life threatening condition. Restraining PWEs from sport was recommended by 119 (20%). 283 (49%) recommended restraining PWEs from driving with 50/283 (9%) advocating a lifelong ban. When witnessing a PWE having a seizure, 73% stated they would intervene to help.Conclusions: Despite 62% of the participants being university graduates, they still had several misconceptions and prejudices about people with epilepsy. The results of this survey will assist in precise identification of the sources of misinformation and focus on all the components of their erroneous beliefs.