Health Literacy and Attitudes Towards Childhood Epilepsy

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Neurology
• Health Literacy Studies

Background:

• Childhood epilepsy affects numerous families globally.
• Public perception and understanding of epilepsy can significantly impact individuals with the condition.
• Sociodemographic factors and health literacy may influence public attitudes toward epilepsy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate public attitudes towards childhood epilepsy.
• To examine the influence of health literacy on these attitudes.
• To assess the role of sociodemographic variables in shaping public perception of childhood epilepsy.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 311 participants.
• Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using validated scales for sociodemographics, epilepsy attitudes (CEAS), and health literacy (HLS).
• Statistical analyses included t-tests, ANOVA, and hierarchical linear regression.

Main Results:

• Participants generally held positive attitudes towards childhood epilepsy (mean CEAS score: 43.61 ± 7.86).
• Health literacy scores were also notably high (mean HLS score: 100.19 ± 17.90).
• Attitudes were positively influenced by educational status, prior witnessing of seizures, and higher health literacy, but not by gender, family type, or personal/family history of epilepsy.

Conclusions:

• Public attitudes towards childhood epilepsy are predominantly positive.
• Educational attainment, personal experience with seizures, and health literacy are key determinants of public attitudes.
• Targeted educational initiatives are recommended to further enhance public understanding and support for individuals with childhood epilepsy.