Assessing parents' attitudes towards ketogenic dietary therapies.

ABSTRACT

We aimed to assess and quantify parental beliefs regarding ketogenic dietary therapies (KDTs). We also aimed to determine whether beliefs were related to response to KDTs. Adapted versions of the Beliefs about Medicine Questionnaire were completed by parents of children following KDTs for epilepsy. Demographic and clinical data were collected from hospital records. Ketogenic dietary therapy response was defined as ≥50% seizure reduction compared to baseline. Many parents had a positive perception of KDTs and were convinced of the necessity of KDTs for their children, although beliefs were wide-ranging. Over half of parents reported concerns about the potential long-term effects of KDTs. Parental beliefs about KDTs were significantly correlated with patient response. This was an attempt to quantify parents' beliefs regarding the use of KDTs for their child's epilepsy. The questionnaire may be used to identify individuals with a less positive attitude towards KDTs and who may be less likely to report a favorable response to KDTs. It is unknown whether people who have positive beliefs about KDTs engage in less nonadherent behavior or whether beliefs regarding KDTs simply reflect outcomes. The evidence behind the long-term side effects of KDTs should be emphasized when counseling patients and their families.