Perceived stigma and associated factors among children and adolescents with epilepsy in south western Uganda: A cross sectional study

Discrimination against adolescents with chronic diseases: a systematic review

Discrimination is a social construct that discredits individuals based on attributes deemed socially undesirable. Adolescence is a period of transition where individuals acquire skills, values, and experiences that prepare them for adulthood. Adverse experiences during adolescence could particularly affect these acquisitions. For adolescents, discrimination is an experience that can lead to social and health consequences. Our hypothesis is that adolescents with chronic disease are more likely to be exposed to discrimination than their healthy peers. This systematic review aimed to study the prevalence, nature, and the additional risk of discrimination in adolescents with chronic disease compared to their healthy peers. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, including both quantitative and qualitative studies, published between January 2000 and December 2022. Searches were conducted using several electronic databases, including PubMed, COCHRANE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CAIRN, and CINAHL. Included articles studied adolescents between 12 and 18 years old affected by one of the most prevalent chronic diseases (obesity, epilepsy, diabetes, respiratory diseases including asthma and cystic fibrosis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease). Those articles reported discrimination from the adolescents' perspective and studied the association between discrimination and disease. We identified 27 studies conducted across almost all continents, including a total of 3,290,446 adolescents. Most of the studies are cross-sectional and recent (published after 2017). They are mainly focused on obesity and epilepsy. All types of discrimination were studied, although cyberbullying was explored in only one study. The prevalence of discrimination was reported in 11 studies and varies depending on the type of chronic disease and contexts (from 14% in adolescents with cystic fibrosis to 99% in adolescents with diabetes). Discrimination was mostly self-reported by the adolescents and it came from multiple sources: peers, parents, or educational and healthcare professionals. It seems that the presence of a chronic disease exposes individuals to an additional risk of discrimination, even though quantifying this risk was not possible due to the diversity of methods.

CONCLUSION

Discrimination against adolescents with chronic diseases has received poorly studied in literature even though they appear to be more vulnerable than their peers. The phenomenon is complex since discrimination occurs through several forms and originates from diverse sources. Given the multiple repercussions of discrimination on all aspects of adolescents' life and development, it is essential to study it further. Awareness of discrimination's diversity will allow to establish preventing actions. Early screening could help limit discrimination's prejudice on adolescents' quality of life.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Discrimination has a significant impact on the life of individuals who experienced it. • Some risk factors of discrimination are already known, e.g., age, gender, disability, ethnic origin. • There is no strong evidence that having a chronic disease at adolescence increases the risk of discrimination.

WHAT IS NEW

• Adolescents with chronic disease have an additional risk of discrimination coming from their peers, their parents, and professionals. • The discrimination could be explained by the permanent physical difference, the occasional visibility of the symptoms or physical limitations, and the sociocultural constructs of the disease.

Stigma, seizure self-efficacy, and quality of life in children with epilepsy

INTRODUCTION

In addition to seizure care, it has been well-established that a holistic approach to the treatment of children with epilepsy that addresses the social, behavioral, and psychological dimensions also benefits their quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to investigate the patient and parental perceived stigma, seizure self-efficacy of children with epilepsy, and the relationship with quality of life in terms of sociodemographic and epilepsy-related factors.

METHOD

The study group consisted of children, aged between 8 and 18 years and with a diagnosis of epilepsy of at least six months duration and their parents. Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), Child-Parent Stigma Scales, and the Seizure Self-Efficacy Scale for Children (SSES-C) were used for evaluation.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-four children (mean age 12.6 ± 2.9 years) took part, of whom 48.6% were female. The mean Child Stigma Scale score was 1.77 ± 0.82, Parent Stigma Scale score 2.41 ± 0.75, SSES-C score was 3.37 ± 0.98, and PedsQL score was 72.8 ± 18.6 for children self-reports (CsR) and 73.2 ± 18.8 for parent proxy-reports. The intraclass correlation coefficient for parent-child PedsQL indicated a good level of agreement. There was a significant negative correlation between the Child Stigma Scale and the PedsQL-CsR scores. A significant positive correlation was identified between the SSES-C scores and the PedsQL-CsR scores.

DISCUSSION

Perceptions of stigma in children with epilepsy and their parents were high in this study population. Of note, the elevated stigma perception reported by the patients had a detrimental impact on seizure self-efficacy. This relationship may affect the children's QoL and further complicates epilepsy management in this patient group.

Felt stigma and associated factors in children and adolescents with epilepsy: a multicenter cross-sectional study in China

Objective

Epilepsy-related stigma is a global problem, yet there has been an inadequate focus on children and adolescents. The purpose of this study was to determine the status quo of stigma and its determinants among children and adolescents with epilepsy in China.

Methods

A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted across nine hospitals in eight cities within six provinces in China from 10 October 2023 to 15 June 2024. Participants included patients aged 8 to 18 years with epilepsy and their caregivers. Felt stigma was assessed with the Kilifi Stigma Scale for Epilepsy (KSSE). Social support and self-efficacy were collected through the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS) and the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES). The data were analyzed using t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA), Spearman correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

The study enrolled 281 children and adolescents, with a mean age of 12.25 years (SD = 2.56), including 46.6% females. A total of 35.6% participants had self-reported felt stigma. The mean KSSE score is 9.58 (SD = 7.11). Meanwhile, stigma scores correlated strongly with reduced social support (r = -0.55, p < 0.01) and self-efficacy (r = -0.43, p < 0.01). Place of residence (rural vs. non-rural), academic performance (average and above vs. fair or poor), region (western region vs. non-western region), duration of epilepsy (≤5 years vs. >5 years), drug-resistant epilepsy (yes vs. no), comorbidities (yes vs. no), social support and self-efficacy are major influencing factors among the complex factors influencing the felt stigma among children and adolescents.

Conclusion

Medical staff should be more aware of stigma among children and adolescents with epilepsy, especially those who live in rural and western areas, have poor academic performance, have epilepsy duration of more than 5 years, have drug-resistant epilepsy, and have comorbidities, who are at higher risk of stigma. It is recommended that effective measures be taken to alleviate stigma by improving children and adolescents' self-efficacy and providing more social support for them and their families.

Prevalence and factors associated with psychosis among adults with epilepsy at a tertiary hospital in Uganda, cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Psychotic disorders are prevalent among people with epilepsy compared to the general population. However, there is limited information regarding psychosis among people with epilepsy in Uganda. This study therefore determined the prevalence and associated factors of psychosis among adults with epilepsy attending Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital in Uganda.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study involving adults with epilepsy. The diagnosis of psychosis was assessed using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview, module for Psychotic disorders. Logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with psychosis.

RESULTS

Out of 250 participants, 6.8% had psychosis and 13.6% had depression. Psychosis was significantly associated with older age, greater perceived stigma and substance use.

CONCLUSION

Psychosis affects nearly 7% of adults with epilepsy in Uganda especially among those who are older, with perceived stigma and substance use. Routine screening and early intervention to management of psychosis in PWE is highly recommended.

Perceived and self-stigma in people with epilepsy in East Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

People with stigmatizing conditions associated with epilepsy encounter many difficulties in their daily lives and are more likely to have low self-esteem, low levels of hope, internalize negative attitudes, decrease adherence to treatment, and experience unemployment. The purpose of this study was to quantify the extent of perceived stigma and self-stigma among people with epilepsy.

METHODOLOGY

This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Item Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guideline. PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and HINARI were major search databases. The included literature reports the prevalence of perceived stigma and self-stigma among people with epilepsy in East Africa. The quality of each study was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). Data were extracted using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, and data analysis was performed using STATA version 11. The pooled prevalence of perceived stigma and self-stigma was determined using a random effect model. Heterogeneity between studies was checked using the I2 statistical test. Publication bias was checked using Egger's statistical test and funnel plot.

RESULTS

The pooled prevalence of perceived stigma and self-stigma in people with epilepsy was 43.9 % with a 95 % CI (29.2, 58.7) and 41.2 % with a 95 % CI (12.1, 70.3), respectively. Based on the country, sub-group analysis revealed that the prevalence of perceived stigma among people with epilepsy shows a notable difference between the countries. In Ethiopia, the prevalence was 51.8 % with a 95 % CI of 29.8 to 73.8; in Uganda, 39.4 % with a 95 % CI of 27.1 to 51.3; in Tanzania, 27.4 % with a 95 % CI of 27.9 to 36.9; and in Kenya, 33.2 % with a 95 % CI of 28.2 to 38.2.

CONCLUSION

Roughly 30 % of people with epilepsy experience self-stigma, while approximately 44 % of people with epilepsy experience perceived stigma. As a result, the relevant authorities ought to focus on reducing the prevalence of stigma among people who have epilepsy.

Effectiveness of Yoga Intervention in Reducing Felt Stigma in Adults With Epilepsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Persons with epilepsy are afflicted with comorbidities such as stigma, anxiety, and depression which have a significant impact on their quality of life. These comorbidities remain largely unaddressed in resource-limited countries. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to investigate whether yoga and psychoeducation were effective in reducing felt stigma (primary outcome), neuropsychiatric outcomes, and seizure frequency, as compared with sham yoga and psychoeducation in persons with epilepsy.

METHODS

This was an assessor-blinded, sham yoga-controlled RCT. Patients clinically diagnosed with epilepsy, aged 18-60 years, and scoring higher than the cutoff score for felt stigma as measured by the Kilifi Stigma Scale (KSS) in our population were randomly assigned to receive either yoga therapy plus psychoeducation (intervention) or sham yoga therapy plus psychoeducation (comparator) for a duration of 3 months. The primary outcome was a significant decrease in felt stigma as compared with the comparator arm as measured by the KSS. Primary and secondary outcomes (seizure frequency, quality of life, anxiety, depression, mindfulness, trait rumination, cognitive impairment, emotion regulation) were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Parametric/nonparametric analysis of covariance and the χ2 test were used to compare the 2 arms.

RESULTS

A total of 160 patients were enrolled in the trial. At the end of the follow-up period (6 months), the intervention arm reported significant reduction in felt stigma as compared with the control arm (Cohen's d = 0.23, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.55, p = 0.006). Significantly higher odds of >50% seizure reduction (odds ratio [OR] 4.11, 95% CI 1.34-14.69, p = 0.01) and complete seizure remission (OR 7.4, 95% CI 1.75-55.89, p = 0.005) were also observed in the intervention group. The intervention group showed significant improvement in symptoms of anxiety, cognitive impairment, mindfulness, and quality of life relative to the control group at the end of follow-up period (p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Yoga can alleviate the burden of epilepsy and improve the overall quality of life in epilepsy by reducing perceived stigma.

TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2017/04/008385).

CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE

This study provides Class I evidence that yoga reduces felt stigma in adult patients with epilepsy.

Determinants of felt-stigma in adolescents with epilepsy: Is it the same story?

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to investigate previously researched variables in adult people with epilepsy (PWE), which include felt stigma, perceived overprotection, concealment of epilepsy, and epilepsy-related concerns for adolescents with epilepsy (AWE). Another goal was to determine the reported levels of these variables and explore the relationships among them, as well as their associations with demographic and clinical factors. Additionally, we also investigated whether clinical and demographic variables create significant changes in these variables. Lastly, we aimed to determine the variables that predict felt-stigma in AWE.

METHODS

On hundred and nineteen AWE aged between 10 and 18 were included in the study by using convenience sampling. Participants received the scales and demographic information form either in face to face meeting or via a Zoom session.

RESULTS

Nearly half of the participants stated high level of felt stigma, perceived overprotection and concealment of epilepsy, while more than half reported concerns about their future/occupational prospects. Also, felt stigma had significant relations with concealment of epilepsy and concerns related to epilepsy. Early adolescents were under more risk for perceived overprotection, while late adolescents had higher concerns related to future/occupation. Females reported more felt stigma. Finally, felt stigma was predicted by concealment, concerns related to future/occupation, and concerns related to social life.

CONCLUSION

The variables that explain the felt-stigma in AWE appear to be quite similar to those in adult PWE.

Using machine learning approach to predict depression and anxiety among patients with epilepsy in China: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Anxiety and depression are the most prevalent comorbidities among epilepsy patients. The screen and diagnosis of anxiety and depression are quite important for the management of patients with epilepsy. In that case, the method for accurately predicting anxiety and depression needs to be further explored.

METHODS

A total of 480 patients with epilepsy (PWE) were enrolled in our study. Anxiety and Depressive symptoms were evaluated. Six machine learning models were used to predict anxiety and depression in patients with epilepsy. Receiver operating curve (ROC), decision curve analysis (DCA) and moDel Agnostic Language for Exploration and eXplanation (DALEX) package were used to evaluate the accuracy of machine learning models.

RESULTS

For anxiety, the area under the ROC curve was not significantly different between models. DCA revealed that random forest and multilayer perceptron has the largest net benefit within different probability threshold. DALEX revealed that random forest and multilayer perceptron were models with best performance and stigma had the highest feature importance. For depression, the results were much the same.

CONCLUSIONS

Methods created in this study may offer much help identifying PWE with high risk of anxiety and depression. The decision support system may be valuable for the everyday management of PWE. Further study is needed to test the outcome of applying this system to clinical settings.

Poor Seizure Control Among Children Attending a Tertiary Hospital in South Western Uganda - A Retrospective Study

Background

Seizure control among children with epilepsy (CWE) receiving anti-seizure medications (ASMs) remains a challenge in low-resource settings. Uncontrolled seizures are significantly associated with increased morbidity and mortality among CWE. This negatively impacts their quality of life and increases stigma.

Aim

This study determined seizure control status and described the factors associated among CWE receiving ASMs at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH).

Methods

In a retrospective chart review study, socio-demographic and clinical data were obtained from 112 medical records. CWE receiving ASMs for at least six months and regularly attending the clinic were included in the study. Physical or telephone interviews were conducted with the immediate caregivers of the CWE to establish the current seizure control status of the participants.

Results

A total of 112 participants were enrolled. Of these, three-quarters had generalized onset seizures, 23% had focal onset seizures, while 2% had unknown onset motor seizures. About 60.4% of the study participants had poor seizure control. Having a comorbidity (p-value 0.048, AOR 3.2 (95% CI 1.0-9.9)), history suggestive of birth asphyxia (p-value 0.014, AOR 17.8 (95% CI 1.8-176.8)), and being an adolescent (p-value 0.006, AOR 6.8 (95% CI 1.8-26.6)) were significantly associated with poor seizure control.

Conclusion

Seizure control among CWE receiving ASMs at MRRH remains poor. Efforts geared to addressing seizure control and optimizing drugs are needed, especially among children with comorbidities, those with history of birth asphyxia, and adolescents.

Social support for and features of Chinese adults with epilepsy

Background

The lack of social support for adults with epilepsy (AWEs) is receiving increased attention, as it may result in low quality of life. This study was aimed to confirm the demographic characteristics of and clinical factors associated with social support for AWEs.

Methods

AWEs were consecutively recruited from our hospital. The 10-term Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS) was used to measure social support. A linear regression analysis with stepwise selection was performed to analyze the independent variables associated with social support for AWEs.

Results

In total, 165 AWEs were consecutively included in the present study. Linear regression analysis showed that the marital status (t = -3.550, β = -0.272, P = 0.001), the age at onset (t = 2.545, β = 0.192, P = 0.012), and the QOLIE-31 score (t = 3.144, β = 0.221, P = 0.002) were independent variables associated with social support for AWEs.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the poor social support is associated with childhood onset of epilepsy and the unmarried status. This study also confirmed a negative influence of low social support on quality of life in AWEs.

Perceived stigma and self-esteem for children with epilepsy

OBJECTIVE

The study was conducted to determine the sense of stigma and self-esteem in children with epilepsy.

METHODS

The study has a descriptive-correlational design.The research group included 150 children aged 9 to 15 who presented to a hospital in eastern Turkey, the Pediatric Neurology Clinic and Polyclinic, between January and June 2021, and were admitted to a pediatric clinic associated with the epilepsy polyclinic. A personal information form, a child perceptions scale (CPS), and the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory (CSEI) were used to collect the data.

RESULTS

Children scored an average of 3.31 ± 1.10 on the CPS and an average of 37.33 ± 27.78 on the CSEI. A statistically significant, high-level, and negative relationship was found between CSEI and CPS scores (p < 0.05). As the CSEI score increases, the CPS score drops. A statistically significant model was obtained from the regression analysis (F = 246.816; p = 0.000; R2 = 0.791; SH = 17.07). The CSEI score significantly predicts the CPS score.

CONCLUSION

The research study revealed that children with epilepsy have a high perception of stigma and low self-esteem levels, and that children's perceptions of being stigmatized are influenced by their educational status, their parents' educational status, their income level, their family type variables, and their self-esteem. The study determined that children's self-esteem decreased as their perception of stigma increased.

Seizures and Epilepsy in Childhood

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article highlights basic concepts of seizures and epilepsy in pediatric patients, as well as basic treatment principles for this age group.

RECENT FINDINGS

Epilepsy is the most common neurologic disorder in childhood. Accurate diagnosis is key; in older children, epileptic seizures need to be differentiated from various paroxysmal nonepileptic events, whereas in neonates, the majority of seizures are subclinical (electroencephalographic). Antiseizure medications remain the first-line treatment, but ketogenic diet and epilepsy surgery have also shown positive outcomes and can decrease drug burden. Genetic causes account for approximately 30% of cases, and the recognition of electroclinical syndromes is being replaced by the concept of genetic spectrums. Precision medicine therapies are promising, but wide application in daily practice still has a long way to go. Early access to specialist centers and optimal treatments positively affects prognosis and future neurodevelopment.

SUMMARY

Although novel findings from all fields of research are being incorporated into everyday clinical practice, a better quality of life for children with seizures and epilepsy and their families is the ultimate priority.

Systematic review of frequency of felt and enacted stigma in epilepsy and determining factors and attitudes toward persons living with epilepsy-Report from the International League Against Epilepsy Task Force on Stigma in Epilepsy

OBJECTIVE

To review the evidence of felt and enacted stigma and attitudes toward persons living with epilepsy, and their determining factors.

METHODS

Thirteen databases were searched (1985-2019). Abstracts were reviewed in duplicate and data were independently extracted using a standardized form. Studies were characterized using descriptive analysis by whether they addressed "felt" or "enacted" stigma and "attitudes" toward persons living with epilepsy.

RESULTS

Of 4234 abstracts, 132 met eligibility criteria and addressed either felt or enacted stigma and 210 attitudes toward epilepsy. Stigma frequency ranged broadly between regions. Factors associated with enacted stigma included low level of knowledge about epilepsy, lower educational level, lower socioeconomic status, rural areas living, and religious grouping. Negative stereotypes were often internalized by persons with epilepsy, who saw themselves as having an "undesirable difference" and so anticipated being treated differently. Felt stigma was associated with increased risk of psychological difficulties and impaired quality of life. Felt stigma was linked to higher seizure frequency, recency of seizures, younger age at epilepsy onset or longer duration, lower educational level, poorer knowledge about epilepsy, and younger age. An important finding was the potential contribution of epilepsy terminology to the production of stigma. Negative attitudes toward those with epilepsy were described in 100% of included studies, and originated in any population group (students, teachers, healthcare professionals, general public, and those living with epilepsy). Better attitudes were generally noted in those of younger age or higher educational status.

SIGNIFICANCE

Whatever the specific beliefs about epilepsy, implications for felt and enacted stigma show considerable commonality worldwide. Although some studies show improvement in attitudes toward those living with epilepsy over time, much work remains to be done to improve attitudes and understand the true occurrence of discrimination against persons with epilepsy.

Barriers to access and utilization of healthcare by children with neurological impairments and disability in low-and middle-income countries: a systematic review

Background: Neurological impairments (NI) and disability are common among older children in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). We conducted a systematic review to examine the barriers limiting access and utilization of biomedical and rehabilitative care by children and adolescents with NI in LMICs. Methods: We searched PubMed, Latin America and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Global Index Medicus, and Google Scholar for studies published between 01/01/1990 and 14/11/2019 to identify relevant studies. We included all studies reporting on barriers limiting access and utilization of preventive, curative, and rehabilitative care for children aged 0-19 years with NI in five domains: epilepsy, and cognitive, auditory, visual, and motor function impairment. Data from primary studies were synthesized using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Results: Our literature searches identified 3,258 reports of which 20 were included in the final analysis. Fifteen studies (75.0%) originated from diverse settings in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Factors limiting access and utilization of healthcare services in >50% of the studies were: financial constraints (N=17, 85.0%), geographical and physical inaccessibility (N=14, 70.0%), inadequate healthcare resources (N=14, 70.0%), prohibitive culture and beliefs (N=12, 60.0%), and inadequate education/awareness (N=11, 55.0%). Factors reported in <50% of the studies included competing domestic roles (N=4, 20%) and a lack of confidentiality for personal information (N=2, 10.0%). Very few reports were identified from outside Africa preventing a statistical analysis by continent and economic level. Conclusions: Financial constraints, geographic and physical inaccessibility, and inadequate healthcare resources were the most common barriers limiting access and utilization of healthcare services by children with NI in LMICs. PROSPERO registration: CRD42020165296 (28/04/2020).

"There's Nothing Wrong With You": Pain-Related Stigma in Adolescents With Chronic Pain

OBJECTIVE

Adolescents with chronic pain often experience symptom disbelief and social rejection by others secondary to "medically unexplained" symptoms. Although chronic pain is common in adolescents, limited research has conceptualized these social experiences as pain-related stigma in this population. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe pain-related stigma among adolescents with chronic pain and their parents using focus group methodology.

METHODS

Five adolescent focus groups (N = 18; Age M = 15.33 years, SD = 1.28) and three parent focus groups (N = 9) were conducted. Directed content analysis was used to analyze focus group transcripts. Stigma categories were developed a priori (Felt Stigma, Anticipated Stigma, Internalized Stigma, Concealment, and Controllability) and new categories emerged during analysis. Two coders reached 87.16% agreement for all groups (adolescent group: 90.34%; Parent group: 79.55%) and consensus was achieved for discordant codes.

RESULTS

Adolescents and their parents endorsed pain-related stigma across all social domains. Analyses revealed four main categories for both groups (a) Felt Stigma (subcategories: pain dismissal, faking or exaggerating, and mental health stigma), (b) Anticipated Stigma and Concealment, (c) Internalized Stigma, and (d) Sources of Pain-Related Stigma (subcategories: pain invisibility, lack of chronic pain knowledge, lack of understanding, and controllability).

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents with chronic pain experience pain-related stigma from medical providers, school personnel, family members, and peers, which may have negative social and health implications. More research is needed to evaluate the link between pain-related stigma and health outcomes for adolescents with chronic pain. Clinical approaches targeting pain-related stigma are discussed.

Depression severity mediates the impact of perceived stigma on quality of life in patients with epilepsy

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether and the extent to which depression severity mediates the impact of perceived stigma on quality of life in patients with epilepsy (PWE).

METHODS

A consecutive cohort of 165 PWE was invited to participate in this study. Each participant completed the Kilifi Stigma Scale of Epilepsy (KSSE), Depression Inventory for Epilepsy (NDDI-E), and Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory (QOLIE-31). Mediation analysis was employed to assess whether depression severity mediates the relationship between perceived stigma and quality of life.

RESULTS

Perceived stigma was positively associated with depression severity and negatively associated with quality of life in PWE. The mediation analysis confirmed that perceived stigma had an indirect effect on the quality of life through the mediating variable of depression severity in PWE (B = -0.576, SE = 0.097, Bootstrap95% CI = -0.784 to -0.405). The indirect effects of perceived stigma on quality of life through depression severity accounted for 57.7% of the total effects of perceived stigma on quality of life.

CONCLUSION

This study provided evidence that depression severity mediates the impact that perceived stigma has on quality of life, indicating that assessment of and interventions targeting depression may be appropriate for PWE.

A peer support group intervention to decrease epilepsy-related stigma in an onchocerciasis-endemic area in Mahenge, Tanzania: A pilot study

A high burden of epilepsy has been reported in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) particularly in onchocerciasis endemic areas. To improve the quality of life of persons with epilepsy (PWE) in Mahenge, an onchocerciasis-endemic area in Tanzania, we established peer support groups (PSG) in two out of four rural villages (Mdindo, Msogezi, Mzelezi and Sali). One year later (between February and July 2020), we carried out a cross-sectional survey among PWE and their caregivers in the four rural villages with the aim of comparing perceived stigma among PWE in study sites with and without PSG. Perceived stigma was measured using the validated Kilifi stigma scale of epilepsy (KSSE), whose total score ranges from 0-30. A generalized linear mixed regression model was used to identify factors associated with high stigma scores. A total of 161 PWE participated in the study; 76 (47.2%) resided in villages where a PSG intervention was implemented. The overall mean stigma score was 3.7 ± 4.6, with no significant difference between villages with and without PSG (p = 0.537). Only one PWE (0.6%) scored above 20 (very high perceived stigma). Experiencing more seizures during the past week (Coef = 1.013 [0.568, 1.457]), having attended school (Coef = 1.821 0.345, 3.297], and a history of physical abuse (Coef = 3.200 [0.574, 5.827]) were associated with higher stigma scores. Perceived stigma in rural villages in Mahenge is a major public health problem. A follow-up study is needed to determine the medium- to long-term effect of the PSG intervention on perceived epilepsy-related stigma.

Epilepsy stigma in the Republic of Guinea and its socioeconomic and clinical associations: A cross-sectional analysis

OBJECTIVE

We aim to quantify the degree of epilepsy stigma perceived by people living with epilepsy (PLWE) in the Republic of Guinea (2019 gross national income per capita, 930 USD) and analyze the demographic, social, and clinical factors associated with epilepsy stigma in this setting.

METHODS

A prospective convenience cohort of PLWE was recruited at the Ignace Deen Hospital in Conakry and evaluated by U.S. and Guinean neurology-trained physicians. A survey instrument exploring demographic, social, and clinical variables was designed and administered. The primary outcome measure was the Stigma Scale of Epilepsy (SSE), a 24-item scale with scores ranging from 0 (least stigma)-100 (most). Regression models were fit to assess associations between SSE score and pre-selected demographic, social, and clinical variables of interest.

RESULTS

249 PLWE (112 female; mean age 20.0 years; 22 % from rural locales; 14 % of participants >16 years old with no formal schooling; 11 % seizure-free for >=6 months) had an average SSE score of 46.1 (standard deviation = 14.5) points. Children had an average SSE score of 45.2, and adults had an average score of 47.0. There were no significant differences between self- and guardian-reported SSE scores (means = 45.8 and 46.5, respectively), p = .86. In univariate analyses, higher stigma scores were associated with more seizures (p = .005), more depressive symptoms (p = .01), and lower household wealth (p = .03). In a multivariable model including sex, educational level, household wealth, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, seizure frequency, and seizure-related burns, only higher seizure frequency (β = -2.34, p = .03) and lower household wealth (β = 4.05, p = .03) were significantly associated with higher SSE scores.

CONCLUSION

In this Guinean cohort of people living with poorly-controlled epilepsy, there was a moderate degree of perceived stigma on average. Stigma was associated with higher seizure frequency and lower household wealth-both potentially modifiable factors.

Intra-household Variation in Pathways to Care for Epilepsy and Mental Disorders in Eastern Uganda

Integrating mental, neurological, and substance use (MNS) health care into the public health system has become a global priority, with mental health, and well-being now being part of the Sustainable Development Goals. In the aim to provide good quality care for MNS disorders, understanding patients' pathways to care is key. This qualitative study explores the pathways to care of patients attending an outpatient mental health clinic of a district hospital in eastern rural Uganda, from the perspectives of their caregivers. Twenty seven in-depth interviews were conducted with caregivers of MNS patients visiting the clinic, with a focus on four case-presentations. Data analysis consisted of thematic and emergent content analyses using NVivo 11. Results across all interviews highlight that chosen help-seeking itineraries were largely pluralistic, combining and alternating between traditional healing practices, and biomedical care, regardless of the specific MNS disorder. Intra-household differences in care seeking pathways—e.g., where one patient received traditional help or no care at all, while the other received biomedical care—depended on caregivers' perceived contextual illness narrative for each patient, in combination with a variety of other factors. If interpreted as a form of bewitchment, traditional medicine and healing was often the first form of care sought, while the mental health clinic was seen as a recourse to “free” care. Patients, especially younger children, who showed visible improvements once stabilized on psychotropic medication was a source of motivation for caregivers to continue with biomedical care at the mental health clinic. However, stock-outs of the free psychotropic medication at the clinic led to dissatisfaction with services due to out-of-pocket expenses and precipitated returning to alternative therapy choices. This article showcases the importance of understanding the complex and varied combinations of individual, cultural, socioeconomic and structural factors that may affect caregivers' choices of pathways to care for patients with MNS disorders in eastern rural Uganda. These cumulative complex processes and context-specific help-seeking behaviors, which ultimately impact patient treatment and MNS health outcomes, need to be first acknowledged, understood and taken into account if we are to promote more inclusive, effective and integrated public mental health systems globally.

Prevalence and factors associated with behavioural problems in children with epilepsy attending Mulago hospital, Uganda: A cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

To determine the prevalence of behavioural problems and the associated factors in children with epilepsy (CWE).

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda, from December 2019 to May 2020. A total of 300 CWE aged 6 to 17 years were consecutively enrolled and assessed for behavioural problems using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. We obtained data on the associated factors by using pretested structured questionnaires, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Kilifi Stigma Scale of Epilepsy, the Morisky medication adherence scale and the Tumaini Child Health Screener for childhood disabilities.  Simple logistic regression and multivariate analysis was done to determine the associated factors while adjusting for the presence of neurodevelopmental disorders and childhood disabilities.

RESULTS

Behavioural problems were detected in 108/300 CWE (36%) with more internalizing (28%) than externalizing (21%) behaviour scores noted. The odds of behavioural problems increased with the presence of co-morbid neurodevelopmental disorders or childhood disabilities (cOR: 5.42, p-value < 0.001). Factors associated with occurrence of behavioural problems were high stigma perception (aOR: 4.06, p-value < 0.001) and being seizure-free in the last six months (aOR: 3.43, p-value =0.031) while being an adolescent (aOR: 0.33, p=0.001) lessened the risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Behavioural problems occur in more than a third of CWE. They are more in the internalizing domain than in the externalizing domain. Their odds increase with high perceived stigma and in the first six months of seizure control.

Stigma and associated factors among people with epilepsy in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed to summarize the pooled prevalence of stigma and associated factors among people with epilepsy in Ethiopia. A systematic search of articles was conducted in PubMed, SCOPUS, African Journals Online (AJOL), and Journal Storage (JSTOR). A standardized data extraction format was used to extract data. The analysis was conducted using STATA version 11 software. Cochrane Q statistic was used to assess the presence of significant between-study heterogeneity. I² was used to quantify between-study heterogeneity. A leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was done. Subgroup analysis was conducted. Funnel plot, Begg's test, and Egger's regression tests were used to measure the presence of publication bias. Since the studies showed heterogeneity, the pooled estimated prevalence of stigma of people with epilepsy was conducted using DerSimonian-Laird's random-effects model. The estimated pooled prevalence of stigma was 44.65(95%CI; 29.37-59.94). Begg's rank correlation test (Z = 0.15, P = 0.881) and Egger's linear regression test (t = 0.14, P = 0.894) showed the absence of publication bias. Factors associated with an increased likelihood of stigma were 6-10 years of duration of illness (p = 0.003), ≥11 years of duration of illness (p = 0.008), and ≥1/month of seizure frequency (p = 0.01). Comprehensive care that involves psychological, social, and medical components is required. Health education on effective coping mechanisms is recommended.

Barriers to access and utilization of healthcare by children with neurological impairments and disability in low-and middle-income countries: a systematic review

Background: Neurological impairments (NI) and disability are common among survivors of childhood mortality in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). We conducted a systematic review to examine the barriers limiting access and utilization of biomedical care by children and adolescents with NI in LMICs. Methods: We searched PubMed, Latin America and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Global Index Medicus, and Google Scholar for studies published between 01/01/1990 and 14/11/2019 to identify relevant studies. We included all reports on barriers limiting access and utilization of preventive, curative, and rehabilitative care for children aged 0-19 years with NI in five domains: epilepsy, and cognitive, auditory, visual, and motor function impairment. Data from primary studies were synthesized using both qualitative and quantitative approaches, and we report a synthesized analysis of the barriers identified in the primary studies. Results: Our literature searches identified 3,074 reports of which 16 were included in the final analysis. Fourteen studies (87.5%) originated from rural settings in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Factors limiting access and utilization of healthcare services in >50% of the studies were: financial constraints (N=15, 93.8%), geographical inaccessibility (N=11, 68.8%), inadequate healthcare resources (N=11, 68.8%), inadequate education/awareness (N=9, 56.3%), and prohibitive culture/beliefs (N=9, 56.3%). Factors reported in <50% of the studies related to the attitude of the patient, health worker, or society (N=7, 43.8%), poor doctor-patient communication (N=5, 31.3%), physical inaccessibility (N=3, 18.8%), and a lack of confidentiality for personal information (N=2, 12.5%). Very few reports were identified from outside Africa preventing a statistical analysis by continent and economic level. Conclusions: Financial constraints, geographic inaccessibility, and inadequate healthcare resources were the most common barriers limiting access and utilization of healthcare services by children with NI in LMICs. PROSPERO registration: CRD42020165296 (28/04/2020).

Household poverty, schooling, stigma and quality of life in adolescents with epilepsy in rural Uganda

BACKGROUND

Epilepsy remains a leading chronic neurological disorder in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. In Uganda, the highest burden is among young rural people. We aimed to; (i) describe socio-economic status (including schooling), and household poverty in adolescents living with epilepsy (ALE) compared to unaffected counterparts in the same communities and (ii) determine the factors associated with the overall quality of life (QoL).

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional survey nested within a larger study of ALE compared to age-matched healthy community children in Uganda. Between Sept 2016 to Sept 2017, 154 ALE and 154 healthy community controls were consecutively recruited. Adolescents recruited were frequency and age-matched based on age categories 10-14 and 15-19 years. Clinical history and standardized assessments were conducted. One control participant had incomplete assessment and was excluded. The primary outcome was overall QoL and key variables assessed were schooling status and household poverty. Descriptive and multivariable linear regression analysis were conducted for independent associations with overall QoL.

RESULTS

Mean (SD) age at seizure onset was 8.8 (3.9) years and median (IQR) monthly seizure burden was 2 (1-4). Epilepsy was associated with living in homes with high household poverty; 95/154 (61.7%) ALE lived in the poorest homes compared to 68/153 (44.5%) of the healthy adolescents, p = 0.001. Nearly two-thirds of ALE had dropped out of school and only 48/154 (31.2%) were currently attending school compared to 136/153 (88.9%) of healthy controls, p < 0.001. QoL was lowest among ALE who never attended school (p < 0.001), with primary education (p = 0.006) compared to those with at least secondary education. Stigma scores [mean(SD)] were highest among ALE in the poorest [69.1(34.6)], and wealthy [70.2(32.2)] quintiles compared to their counterparts in poorer [61.8(31.7)], medium [68.0(32.7)] and wealthiest [61.5(33.3)] quintiles, though not statistically significant (p = 0.75). After adjusting for covariates, ALE currently attending school had higher overall QoL compared to their counterparts who never attended school (β = 4.20, 95%CI: 0.90,7.49, p = 0.013). QoL scores were higher among ALE with ≥secondary education than those with no or primary education (β = 10.69, 95%CI: 1.65, 19.72).

CONCLUSIONS

ALE in this rural area are from the poorest households, are more likely to drop out of school and have the lowest QoL. Those with poorer seizure control are most affected. ALE should be included among vulnerable population groups and in addition to schooling, strategies for seizure control and addressing the epilepsy treatment gap in affected homes should be specifically targeted in state poverty eradication programs.

Epilepsy-related stigma and cost in two onchocerciasis-endemic areas in South Sudan: A pilot descriptive study

INTRODUCTION

Epilepsy is a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in resource-limited rural villages where persons with epilepsy (PWE) are often confronted with a wide treatment gap, frequent stigma and high cost of epilepsy care. We investigated stigma and economic cost related to epilepsy in the states of Maridi and Amadi in South Sudan, two onchocerciasis endemic areas with high epilepsy prevalence.

METHODS

Between November 2019 and February 2020, community-based surveys were conducted in eight villages of Maridi and Amadi States. Consenting PWE were identified via a door-to-door approach, and perceived stigma was assessed using the validated Kilifi stigma scale. Additional data about household income, as well as epilepsy-related direct and indirect costs were collected.

RESULTS

239 PWE were recruited (95 from Maridi, 144 from Amadi). Stigma scores were higher in Maridi compared to Amadi (mean scores: 13.9 vs 6.5, p < 0.001). Mean weighted epilepsy costs per month in Maridi (38.4 USD) were double those observed in Amadi (17.6 USD). The main epilepsy-related expenditure was the purchase of anti-epileptic drugs (AED). Stigma scores correlated with epilepsy cost (Spearman-rho = 0.24, p < 0.001) and were positively associated with traditional medicine use (regression estimate = 1.9; p = 0.027).

CONCLUSION

In rural South Sudan, PWE and their families often experienced stigma from the community. Higher perceived stigma was associated with traditional medicine use, which increased the overall cost of epilepsy management. Demystifying epilepsy and making AED more accessible would improve the quality of life of PWE and their families, and reduce the economic burden of epilepsy.

Management of epileptic seizures in school-age children: Educational project dedicated to school staff

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to educate the school staff for a correct management of epileptic seizures in order to increase the safety of young people at school and promoting the administration of rescue drugs and in order to improve care and reduce improper calls to the health emergency number.

METHODS

This project started in January 2016, and it is still ongoing at the Department of Neuroscience of Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital in Rome, Italy. There has been a data cut-off evaluation in November 2018. Two-hour training meetings with the school staff have been organized. The major topics of the training activities were as follows: report what epilepsy is, how to manage students with epileptic seizures, and how to administer rescue medications. During the meetings, the following two questionnaires were administered: one pretest in order to collect personal information and information on awareness of epilepsy, willingness to administer rescue medications, and anxiety in facing a seizure; and one posttest in order to check the knowledge acquired after the training sessions. Statistical analysis was performed using R version 3.2.3 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, http://www.R-project.org/). Demographics (sex and age) and teaching experience were summarized with descriptive statistics for each variable. Demographics, teaching experience, awareness of disability, and knowledge of epilepsy were correlated to the management of seizures occurring in the classroom before the course; results are reported as odds ratios [OR] and 95% confidence interval (95 CI).

RESULTS

Nine hundred school staff members (95% school staff and 5% social workers) entered in the project between January 2016 and November 2018. Seven hundred and forty (82%) returned the questionnaires fulfilled, and not all of them were completely filled. Ninety-eight percent of school staff (676/691) were aware about epilepsy; however, only in 16% (110) the awareness of epilepsy came from medical staff, scientific brochures, or participation in conventions. Thirty-five percent of school staff (248/707) believed that epilepsy reduces learning abilities, and 58% (409/703) believed that children with epilepsy need school support. After the training, 68% of school staff (496/734) correctly filled in the questionnaire related to the management of acute seizures versus 8% of them (57/718) in the prequestionnaire. After the training, 89% of school staff (601/675) were ready to administer rescue medications versus 54% (384/712) before the training. The majority of participants reported that the level of anxiety related to the management of seizures after the training significantly reduced.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this project documented an increase in knowledge of epilepsy, a better knowledge on management of acute seizures in the school settings, a reduction in anxiety, and an increase in willingness to administer rescue medications. Further studies should be planned in order to document the changes in the real-world management of seizures, to evaluate if a reduction in hospital admittances might be reached, and to extend the project by assessing, through a questionnaire, the stigma and prejudices against the children affected by epilepsy by their classmates.

Risk and protective factors related to stigma among people with epilepsy: An integrative review

INTRODUCTION

Stigma is a critical issue among people with epilepsy (PWE). There is a need to undertake an integrative review of the factors associated with stigma, as it is experienced subjectively, and cannot be fully understood through quantitative research alone. The aims of this study were to explore the factors influencing epilepsy-associated stigma and to extend our understanding of stigma using an integrative review approach.

METHODS

Three databases (i.e., CINAHL, PubMed, and PsycINFO) were searched for articles published from January 2010 through December 2018 on stigma among PWE. Selected articles were assessed for quality using the mixed-method appraisal tool. The matrix method was used for data extraction and analysis. Overall, the process of the review was guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist.

RESULTS

Overall, 26 studies were included in this review: four qualitative studies, twenty-one quantitative studies, and one mixed-method study. Several factors associated with stigma were found, divided into four categories across two main aspects: individual (i.e., disease and social characteristics) and community (i.e., overall impression/beliefs regarding epilepsy and social networks) based on the Framework Integrating Normative Influences on Stigma.

CONCLUSIONS

The impression of and beliefs about epilepsy among the general population as well as among PWE were the primary factors affecting stigma. Thus, there is a need for the provision of accurate information about epilepsy to both these groups. Additional studies on epilepsy-associated stigma employing various methodological approaches are required.

Perceived stigma and school attendance among children and adolescents with epilepsy in South Western Uganda

Background

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that has a high worldwide prevalence with eighty percent of the global burden being in low and middle-income countries. There is a high level of perceived stigma among children and adolescents with epilepsy, which has severe debilitating effects and affects school attendance.

Objective

To assess the effect of perceived stigma on school attendance patterns among children and adolescents with epilepsy.

Methods

We conducted a cross sectional study among 191 children and adolescents aged from 6–18 years with epilepsy at one large semi-urban hospital and a small rural health center in SouthWestern Uganda. Epilepsy-related perceived stigma was measured using the adapted Kilifi Stigma Scale of Epilepsy and school attendance patterns were assessed using a piloted investigator-designed questionnaire.

Results

Children with high-perceived stigma were more likely to have never attended school (13.8%) or started school late (average age 5.7 years) compared to those with low-perceived stigma (average age 4.9 years). Additionally, those with high epilepsy-related perceived stigma repeated classes 2.5 times more compared to those with low-perceived stigma.

Conclusion

These preliminary findings suggest correlation between high-perceived stigma and disrupted school attendance patterns among children and adolescents with epilepsy, hence the need to address this social challenge.

Biomedical drugs and traditional treatment in care seeking pathways for adults with epilepsy in Masindi district, Western Uganda: a household survey

BACKGROUND

Many patients with epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa do not receive adequate treatment. The purpose of the study was to identify the health care providers where patients with epilepsy sought care and what treatment they received.

METHODS

A cross sectional study was conducted across 87 out of 312 villages in Masindi district. A total of 305 households having patients with epilepsy were surveyed using an interviewer administered questionnaire. Data was entered and analysed in Epi-info ver 7 for univariate and bivariate analysis, and in Stata SE ver 15.0 for multivariable analysis. Sequences of health providers consulted in care seeking, rationale and drugs used, and factors associated with choice of provider were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 139 out of 305 (45.6%) households offered some treatment regimen at home when patients got symptoms of epilepsy with 44.6% (62/139) giving herbs and 18.0% (25/139) offering prayers. Eight different types of providers were consulted as first contact providers for treatment of epilepsy. Health centres received the highest percentage 35.4% (108/305) followed by hospitals 20.9% (64/305). A total of 192 of 305 (63.0%) households received anti-epileptic drugs, 13.1% (40/305) received prayers and 21.6% (66/305) received herbs at the first contact care seeking. Compared to a health centre as the first choice provider, other facilities more significantly visited were; hospitals if they were perceived as nearer (adj. Coeff 2.16, 95%CI 0.74, 3.59, p = 0.003), churches / mosques if cure for epilepsy was expected (adj. Coeff 1.91, 95%CI 0.38, 3.48, p = 0.014), and traditional healer for those aged ≥46 years (adj. Coeff 5.83, 95%CI 0.67, 10.99, p = 0.027), and friends/neighbour for traders (adj. Coeff 2.87, 95%CI 0.71, 5.04, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Patients with epilepsy seek treatment from multiple providers with the public sector attending to the biggest proportion of patients. Engaging the private sector and community health workers, conducting community outreaches and community sensitization with messages tailored for audiences including the young, older epileptics, traditional healers as stakeholders, and traders could increase access to appropriate treatment for epilepsy.

Investigating the awareness, behavior, and attitude toward epilepsy among university students in Benghazi, Libya

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the level of knowledge regarding epilepsy and attitudes prevalent toward people with epilepsy (PWE) among Libyan university students in comparison with international data.

METHODS

A self-administrated questionnaire on awareness regarding epilepsy and behaviors toward PWE was distributed among undergraduate students enrolled in the University of Benghazi. The collected data were analyzed against responses from an Italian survey that utilized a similar questionnaire to explore epilepsy-related knowledge and attitudes among Italian university students in Rome (Mecarelli et al., 2007).

RESULTS

Out of the 500 interviewed students, 96% successfully completed the survey. Further, 96.6% asserted that they possessed some knowledge regarding epilepsy, gained mainly from their families (76.6%). A total of 57.5% considered epilepsy to be a psychiatric disorder while 11.6% recommended psychological tests for the diagnosis of epilepsy. Moreover, 37.5% believed in ancient superstitions, such as possession by evil forces, as the underlying cause of the condition, and 31.8% recommended traditional remedies to cure it. Further, 66.6% deemed epilepsy as a barrier for career prospects, 41% indicated that it presents an impediment in participation in sports, and 35% considered it as an obstacle in marriage. Additionally, epilepsy was perceived as a severe illness by 53.3% of the respondents and considered to be a moderately severe condition by 43.7%. The responses were found to be statistically significant (P<0.05) against the responses from the Italian study.

CONCLUSION

There is a reasonable level of awareness regarding epilepsy among Libyan students, though a lack of accuracy in the acquired knowledge exists. The ancient misconceptions regarding the nature of epilepsy and negative attitudes toward PWE appear to be rather common among the Libyan students. Consequently, the discrepancies in the views between the two surveys concerning the ways in which epilepsy is perceived and PWE are treated were extremely evident, thus reflecting the already established view that epilepsy faces greater stigma as a health condition in developing countries in comparison with Western nations.