Public Awareness of Epilepsy and Social Attitude Toward Persons With Epilepsy Among the General Population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder characterized by an ongoing propensity to experience recurrent seizures. Public awareness varies significantly across different countries. The lack of awareness may lead to misconceptions, which in turn may affect the quality of care for these patients. This study aims to assess public awareness and social attitudes toward patients with epilepsy among the general population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted, targeting the general population of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected anonymously from participants who met our inclusion criteria via electronic data collection Google Forms distributed through social media platforms. Questionnaires included participants' demographic data and details about their awareness regarding epilepsy, attitude, and anticipated behaviors. The eligible persons were asked to fill out the study questionnaire completely. A total of 1,126 eligible participants completed the study questionnaire. The participants' ages ranged from 18 to over 60, with a mean age of 32.1 ± 13.9 years. Of these participants, 849 (75.4%) were female. Interestingly, 97% of the participants reported that they had heard about epilepsy. A total of 96.7% do not think epilepsy is contiguous. Exactly 350 (31.1%) had an overall good knowledge and awareness regarding epilepsy. The most reported sources included relatives/friends (46.8%), internet (38.5%), and personal experience (27.9%). A total of 337 (29.9%) reported that they know how to deal with a seizure. Our study revealed that the sampled population of Makkah is aware of epilepsy on a superficial level, but approximately one out each three participants in Makkah were knowledgeable regarding epilepsy and related causes overall. The overall attitude is positive. A well-targeted educational campaign, designed by physicians as trustful sources, is recommended.