Knowledge, attitude, and practice of epilepsy in rural Sri Lanka.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice in relation to epilepsy in developing countries appears to be different from that in developed countries. This study was conducted to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, expectations, sociocultural aspects, patient characteristics, disease characteristics, pattern of drug therapy, and outcome of patients with epilepsy in rural Sri Lanka. Data were collected from 207 patients attending an epilepsy clinic. In general the study shows a positive trend in knowledge, expectations and attitude toward epilepsy. Social morbidity is reported from 53.6% indicating that public attitude towards epilepsy needs to be changed. Alternative modes of treatment have been tried by 45.9%, reflecting the cultural beliefs in the society. 75% are on monotherapy and carbamazepine is the most commonly used drug. Seizure control is excellent (no seizures during the preceding 6 months) in 33.8%. Side effects of antiepileptic drugs are reported by 76.3%. Various kinds of medical morbidity have been experienced by 32.9% of patients. Copyright 2002 BEA Trading Ltd.