Assessment of Knowledge, attitude and practice towards epilepsy among displaced Sudanese Adults in Egypt 2025
Assessment of Knowledge, attitude and practice towards epilepsy among displaced Sudanese Adults in Egypt 2025
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Date
2026
Authors
Shahd Kamal Ahmed Abdelwahab
Baraa Adel Elshiekh Salman
Sara Khalid Nasr Salman
Alaa Mohammed Mustafa Mohamed
Abrar Alsadig Alsir Aljak
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Napata College
Abstract
Background: Epilepsy affects over 50 million people worldwide, with 80% living in developing
countries. Displaced populations face unique challenges in epilepsy management due to
disrupted healthcare access, limited resources, and cultural beliefs. This study assessed
knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding epilepsy among displaced Sudanese adults in
Egypt to inform targeted educational interventions.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 132 displaced Sudanese adults in
Egypt in 2025. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected on participants' knowledge
of epilepsy causes and symptoms, attitudes toward people with epilepsy, and practices related to
seizure management. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results.
Results: Most participants (96%) were aware of epilepsy, with 52% attributing it solely to
medical causes, though misconceptions persisted—48% believed epilepsy was hereditary and
12% attributed it to magical causes. While attitudes were generally positive, with 91%
supporting inclusion in schools and workplaces, significant stigma remained regarding marriage,
with only 34% accepting marriage to someone with epilepsy. Regarding practices, 61% correctly
identified placing a person on their side during seizures as appropriate first aid, but dangerous
misconceptions persisted, with 24% recommending placing objects in the mouth. Though 95%
expressed willingness to help during seizures, 42% acknowledged not knowing proper response
techniques.
Conclusion: Despite relatively high awareness and positive attitudes toward social inclusion,
displaced Sudanese adults in Egypt hold persistent misconceptions about epilepsy causation and
management. The gap between willingness to help and correct seizure response knowledge
presents a clear opportunity for targeted educational interventions. Addressing these gaps
through culturally-appropriate education could improve epilepsy management and reduce stigma
within this vulnerable population.
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Napata College