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OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the prevalent issues of healthcare access and the impact of antiseizure treatments among people with epilepsy (PWE) in rural Limpopo and Mpumalanga, South Africa, where healthcare facilities and affordable treatments are often inadequate. METHODS: Using a cross-sectional survey, 162 PWE were selected using multistage sampling across the provinces. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire and analyzed descriptively using SPSS v27. RESULTS: Most of the participants experienced seizures intermittently, with 70.6% in Limpopo and 53.3% in Mpumalanga reporting occasional episodes, whereas a significant minority in both regions-20.6% and 40%, respectively-suffered from frequent seizures. A notable portion of PWE also reported recurring side effects from antiseizure drugs, which led to consequential life disruptions, including educational dropout and unemployment. SIGNIFICANCE: The findings underscore an urgent need for enhanced educational programs and increased awareness to improve the understanding and management of epilepsy in these underserved areas. Optimizing care for PWE requires a multifaceted approach, including evaluating healthcare accessibility, affordability, and societal beliefs influencing treatment adherence. The study advocates for government and policy interventions to mitigate the quality of life deterioration caused by epilepsy and its treatment in rural communities. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: In Limpopo and Mpumalanga, many individuals with epilepsy experience seizures occasionally, while a significant minority have them frequently. Numerous people also suffer recurring side effects from antiseizure medications, impacting their lives severely by causing school dropouts and job losses. This underscores the urgent need for improved education and awareness programs to manage epilepsy in these provinces effectively. The study urges government action and policy reforms to enhance care and support for people with epilepsy in rural areas, aiming to improve their quality of life.
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Purpose: To investigate the knowledge of epilepsy care and the support given by professionals to assist family members and caregivers in providing good care to People Living with Epilepsy (PLWE). Patients and Methods: In this case study, fifteen participants participated. Of these, eleven were parents, and four were siblings. Twelve of the participants were primary caregivers, and three were secondary caregivers. Data were collected via in-person semi-structured interviews and analysed via thematic analysis. Results: From the study, two themes emerged: Participant experiences regarding epilepsy practices and knowledge regarding epilepsy. From these two themes, four subthemes emerged: Epileptic seizure practice and treatment, as well as epilepsy knowledge and counselling and support. Conclusion: This study revealed that although family members and caregivers are essential in patient care, they need more support and care from health providers. The much-needed care and support would assist in alleviating some pressures on epilepsy patient care and increase care standards and quality of life for families and PLWE.
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Epilepsy, a common neurological disease, has a significant impact on people living with epilepsy (PLWE), their caregivers, and their family members. Research has consistently shown that the quality of life of PLWE is low. To expand on this knowledge, a non-experimental quantitative survey study was conducted to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of caregivers and family members towards epilepsy and epilepsy-related seizures. The study sample consisted of 519 participants from two South African provinces (Limpopo and Mpumalanga), mostly aged 26-35 years. The study revealed that most respondents in Limpopo had no formal education, whereas in Mpumalanga, most had a secondary education. Most respondents (32.4%) reported always using a spoon to prevent tongue biting during seizures. However, 62.4% of respondents reported feeling unprepared to handle an epileptic seizure. Additionally, the majority (54.7%) showed a moderate level of knowledge about epilepsy. Many respondents had a negative attitude towards epilepsy, and there was uncertainty about proper practices during a seizure. In summary, the research highlights unsatisfactory knowledge and practices towards epilepsy and emphasizes the need for increased education and awareness among caregivers and family members. Significant educational investment is needed from medical services to improve epilepsy care, knowledge, and attitudes.
