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Published on: December 18, 2016
Community Knowledge, Self-Reported Prevalence, and Management of Epilepsy in Lira District: A Descriptive
Christopher Oneka Okullo1, Rebecca Nakaziba2
1Department of Community Health, Lira University, Lira, Uganda.
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
|July 14, 2026
Summary
Epilepsy is prevalent in rural Uganda, with many experiencing stigma and poor management. This study highlights the need for better community screening and healthcare access for epilepsy patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder affecting over 70 million globally.
- Its burden in rural Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Uganda, is under-documented.
- Individuals with epilepsy face significant social stigma and productivity losses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the self-reported prevalence of epilepsy in Lira district, Uganda.
- To assess community knowledge and understanding of epilepsy.
- To examine current management approaches for epilepsy within the community.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, cross-sectional, community-based study was conducted in Lira District.
- 400 adults were randomly sampled from households across ten sub-counties.
- Data collected via interviewer-administered questionnaires in the local language (Leb Lango) and analyzed using SPSS v26.
Main Results:
- A self-reported epilepsy prevalence of 6.25% (25/400) was observed.
- 81% described epilepsy as sudden falling; 51.7% attributed it to malaria or overthinking.
- Only 35% sought help, with 80% reporting no improvement; onset often in childhood.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals a high self-reported prevalence and inadequate community management of epilepsy in Lira district.
- Findings underscore the necessity for validated community screening programs and enhanced healthcare worker training.
- Strengthening referral pathways and supporting clinical validation are crucial for effective epilepsy care.
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