Epilepsy Stigma Among University Students in Makkah: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by a persistent propensity to generate recurring epileptic seizures. Young adults such as university students can bridge the gap and improve attitudes toward patients with epilepsy and reduce stigma. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude of university students in the city of Makkah about epilepsy. Methods This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out at main universities in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. The study was conducted after getting approval from Umm Al-Qura University’s ethics and research committee. A total of 394 participants were enrolled in the study, and a stratified random sampling (probability sampling) technique was used to select respondents. Results The study included students with a mean age of 20.9 ± 4.6 (18–28 years), 271 (68.8%) students were females, 374 (94.9%) of the students agreed that epilepsy is not contagious, and 215 (54.6%) refused the impact of epilepsy on patients’ marital status, relationships and fertility, respectively, 213 (54.1%) of the students reported that they feel scared to witness a seizure. About 334 (84.8%) respondents believed that epilepsy is an affliction, and 123 (31.2%) reported that they thought epilepsy was a supernatural phenomenon or black magic. Conclusion The study concluded a satisfactory level of awareness among university students in Makkah related to dealing with patients with epilepsy. Further scientific studies will help build student’s positive attitudes through simulation programs and interventional studies.

Factors influencing community pharmacists’ knowledge about women’s issues in epilepsy

“…This finding is consistent with previous studies that have reported a lack of knowledge among pharmacists regarding the association between valproic acid and the risk of autism in offspring. Unfortunately, various studies, including those conducted in the region, have shown that individuals with epilepsy face stigma and negative attitudes from both society and some healthcare professionals (38)(39)(40). Pharmacists can play a crucial role in educating patients, their families, and society about epilepsy and its associated health issues.…”