Knowledge, attitude, and believes of epilepsy in local communities of Saudi Arabia

AIM OF THE STUDY: To assess public knowledge, attitude, and believes toward the epilepsy among local community populations in Shaqra Area, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. METHODS: An organized 14 questionnaire was prepared to analyze public knowledge attitudes and believes about epilepsy. Study was conducted randomly in common public places in Shaqra City, Saudi Arabia, during the months of April and May 2016. Sample size includes 155 males and 130 females from Shaqra City of Saudi Arabia. RESULTS: The study analyzed the 285 local public including 155 male and 130 female contributors. About 68.38% male contributors and 63.07% female contributors studied Diploma or Bachelor education program. Female contributors (71.53%) were aware about epilepsy as compared with male contributors (58.70%). Maximum number of female contributors (82.30%) believes that epilepsy is treated by medication as compared with male contributors (58.70%). CONCLUSION: The knowledge, awareness, and attitudes of the epilepsy are found to be much improved in local community of Saudi Arabia. In the modern era, people assume that epilepsy is still due to evil spirit. Many contributors think there should be restrictions on driving and getting jobs in epilepsy patient. Public awareness and educational campaigns should be included in modern methods of education to develop well-knowledged community, which will improve the quality of life of epileptic patients.