Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards epilepsy in morocco: A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Sociology

Background:

• Epilepsy awareness and management vary significantly across populations.
• Understanding the socio-cultural context is crucial for effective epilepsy care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess knowledge, practices, and attitudes towards epilepsy in the general Moroccan population.
• To identify factors influencing these perceptions and behaviors.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 400 participants in the Casablanca-Settat region of Morocco.
• Data collected via questionnaire on sociodemographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding epilepsy.
• Statistical analyses included bivariate and logistic regression.

Main Results:

• High rates of poor knowledge (11.5%), practices (41%), and attitudes (66.6%) towards epilepsy were observed.
• Lack of education and familiarity were linked to poor knowledge and preference for alternative treatments.
• Female sex and preference for alternative treatments predicted stigma, while older age was protective.

Conclusions:

• Poor attitudes and treatment-seeking behaviors are prevalent in Morocco, impacting the quality of life for people with epilepsy (PWE).
• Socio-cultural factors significantly influence epilepsy care and outcomes.
• Results underscore the need for targeted public awareness campaigns in Morocco.