Awareness, knowledge and attitudes towards epilepsy: A review of a decade's research between 200 and 2010

Abstract

The medical literature related to awareness, knowledge and attitudes (AKA) towards epilepsy was reviewed from the perspective of research trend since 2000 until 2010. Several databases i.e. PubMed, Science Direct, MedLine, Genamics, EBSCO Host and Springer Link were assessed to search for the relevant literatures using the keywords; epilepsy, awareness, knowledge, attitudes, 2000-2010. Three main parameters were measured i.e. awareness, knowledge and attitudes. Our review showed that despite a general high level of awareness, there was a serious lack of accurate knowledge regarding epilepsy which has probably led to the widespread of negative attitudes towards people with epilepsy (PWE) as well as the disease itself. Attitudes were the most commonly-measured parameter for the past ten years. It is also apparent that AKA level was better in developed countries compared to developing and poorer countries. Apart from that, methodological issues, challenges for future research, suggestions and future research directions were also discussed. Further worldwide research on AKA towards epilepsy should be targeted with a view to develop more innovative and effective epilepsy-educational programme to ensure that treatment is consistently accompanied by sound AKA in attempts to improve patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL).