Evaluation of Kilifi epilepsy education programme: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Neurology
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• The epilepsy treatment gap is substantial in resource-poor settings.
• Effective interventions are needed to improve epilepsy management in these areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a 1-day health education program on antiepileptic drug (AED) adherence, seizure frequency, and epilepsy-related beliefs in rural Kenya.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 738 people with epilepsy (PWE) and their supporters.
• Intervention group received a 1-day education program; control group did not.
• Primary outcome: AED adherence measured by blood drug levels. Secondary outcomes: seizure frequency and Kilifi Epilepsy Beliefs and Attitudes Scores (KEBAS).

Main Results:

• No significant difference in AED adherence between groups based on blood levels or self-reports immediately post-intervention.
• Intervention group showed significant improvements in knowledge, with fewer traditional beliefs and negative stereotypes about epilepsy.
• Both groups showed increased adherence and reduced seizure frequency from baseline to follow-up, with adherence linked to belief changes and education level.

Conclusions:

• A single health education contact improved epilepsy knowledge but did not significantly improve AED adherence in the short term.
• Sustained educational interventions may be necessary to achieve lasting improvements in adherence and epilepsy outcomes.