Knowledge, attitudes, and practices among caregivers of children with epilepsy in outpatient pediatric neurology clinic: a cross-sectional study at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Caregivers' knowledge and attitudes significantly impact epilepsy care, influencing help-seeking behavior and treatment decisions. In Ethiopia, epilepsy is often misunderstood, associated with misconceptions, and accompanied by persistent negative attitudes. The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of caregivers of children with epilepsy Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 120 caregivers were interviewed using a pretested structured questioner. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive and analytical statistical procedures, with 95% confidence interval were employed and significance level was determined at p-value < 0.05. Results: A significant proportion of the caregivers were familiar with the term 'epilepsy', with more than half having heard or read about it (62; 51.7%) or knowing someone other than the child with epilepsy (61; 50.8%). The identified causes of epilepsy varied, with birth injury 44 (36.7%) being the most common cause reported by caregivers. Notably, there were associations between caregiver sex, awareness of epilepsy through hearing or reading, knowing someone with epilepsy, and their level of knowledge about epilepsy. The study also revealed negative attitudes toward epilepsy. More than half of the participants (56.7%) believed that a child with epilepsy cannot have a high level of intelligence, the majority (76.7%) would not allow their child to play with a child who has epilepsy, and 39.1% believed that a child with epilepsy should never attend school. Additionally, a significant number of caregivers resorted to traditional treatments 35 (29%). A considerable percentage of children with epilepsy received alternative treatments (85 [70%] along with antiepileptic medications). The majority of caregivers recognized the importance of seeking medical attention for individuals with epilepsy. Conclusions: A significant knowledge gap was identified among caregivers of children with epilepsy, revealing prevalent misconceptions and negative attitudes. Improving the epilepsy knowledge, attitude, and practice gap in caregivers will potentially contribute to overall improved awareness, as caregivers can serve as resources and advocates for people with epilepsy.