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Evaluation of an epilepsy education program for Grade 5 students: a cluster randomized trial
A L C Martiniuk1, K N Speechley, M Secco
1The George Institute for International Health at the University of Sydney, M201 Missenden Road, Camperdown, NSW, Australia. amartiniuk@george.org.au
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|April 24, 2007
Summary
An epilepsy education program significantly improved knowledge and attitudes in 5th graders. This intervention reduced stigma associated with epilepsy by increasing understanding and positive perceptions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Public Health
- Pediatric Education
Background:
- Epilepsy is a prevalent neurological disorder often accompanied by significant social stigma.
- International health organizations emphasize the need to evaluate epilepsy-related stigma and develop effective interventions.
- Dispelling myths surrounding epilepsy is crucial for improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of an epilepsy education program in enhancing knowledge and attitudes among 5th-grade students.
- To identify individual and school-based factors influencing epilepsy knowledge and attitudes.
- To assess the impact of the intervention on reducing stigma associated with epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- A stratified cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted with 24 schools and 783 students (ages 9-11).
- The study compared an epilepsy education program (intervention group) against a control group.
- Epilepsy knowledge and attitudes were measured using a 33-item questionnaire at baseline and 1 month post-intervention.
Main Results:
- The intervention group showed a significantly greater increase in epilepsy knowledge (11.8 points) compared to the control group (2.2 points).
- Attitudes towards epilepsy also improved more in the intervention group (8.15 points) than the control group (1.64 points).
- The education program accounted for 63% of the variation in post-program knowledge and 28% in attitudes.
Conclusions:
- The epilepsy education program demonstrated a significant positive impact on students' knowledge and attitudes.
- The findings suggest that targeted educational interventions can effectively combat epilepsy-related stigma in young populations.
- Further research can explore long-term effects and scalability of such programs.
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