Misconceptions and Traditional Treatment Practices Regarding Childhood Epilepsy in Central Gujarat of India: A Community Perspective

Abstract

Background and Purpose: There are various misconception are present in society about variety of diseases.
This study was undertaken to determine the current misconception prevailing in society, community
regarding people with epilepsy (PWE) and traditional treatment practices.
Aims: To determine the misconception and traditional treatment practices regarding epilepsy present in
society
Method: Researcher collected data from 54 parents of epileptic patients who visited the outpatient clinic of
selected hospital of Gujarat. The data were collected by using questionnaire.
Results: Over all it was observed that still people have various misconception towards epilepsy. The social
acceptance of epileptic patient is also major challenge in some of the society.
Conclusions: A suitable educational intervention programs has to plan to prevent social stigma about
epilepsy. Awareness is required among community people that epilepsy can be treated by using antiepileptic
drug and other medial measures. People believe medication has poor recovery rate so some time traditional
practices having good result in recovery.