The Perception, Knowledge and Attitude of Mothers on Childhood Epilepsy in Ado Ekiti, Southwest, Nigeria

OKE, O. J.^1*, Ayodeji Ajibola², Ibidunni Olusola Wuraola² & Oyeku Akibu Oyelami²

¹Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife Ekiti, Nigeria
²Departments of Paediatrics, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria

Dr. OKE, O. J., Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria.

Keywords: Attitude; Childhood; Epilepsy; Knowledge; Mothers; Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder often associated with poor outcomes and varying harmful beliefs in developing countries. Assessing the mothers’ knowledge on epilepsy and attitude will help in patient management and treatment outcome.
Objective
To assess the knowledge, attitude and perception of mothers toward children with epilepsy.
Materials and Methods A structured questionnaire was administered to 400 mothers of patients who attended the Paediatric neurology /outpatient clinic of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado Ekiti. Mothers’ knowledge was assessed on the aetiology, manifestation, treatment and outcome of epilepsy and attitude was assessed on mothers’ disposition toward stigmatization or discrimination against affected children.

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