Knowledge and attitude towards epilepsy in Thai people

Objective: This study was to survey knowledge and attitude towards epilepsy in people living in 4 regions of Thailand from February to June 2003. Design: Cross-sectional survey Methods: The questionnaire was consisted of 10 items measuring general knowledge on epilepsy and 29 items measuring attitude toward epilepsy. A total of 2540 copies of the questionnaire were distributed by mental health care personnel working in 4 regions of Thailand. Results: Most respondents had favorable knowledge about epilepsy in that epilepsy is a treatable brain disease; however, they still misunderstood about first-aid management of seizures that putting object into the patient's mouth could prevent tongue biting. For attitude, even most felt that people with epilepsy had behavioral and emotional problems, they still believed that patient had potential and ability to contribute to society as well as normal people. Unfavorable knowledge and attitudes seem to be determined by overt behavioral symptoms of epilepsy. Conclusion: Some aspects of knowledge and attitude towards epilepsy in general people living in main cities of Thailand were unfavorable. Public education focusing on potential and ability of epileptic patient should be promoted.