Description
Background:
Epilepsy is among the most prevalent neurological non-communicable diseases (NCDs), affecting over 50 million people globally, with a disproportionate burden in sub-Saharan Africa. In Kenya, epilepsy is often associated with stigma, misconceptions, and poor access to care, undermining integration into primary health systems. This study assessed community knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) on epilepsy in Kisii County to inform stigma reduction strategies and health system strengthening.
Methods:
A mixed-methods baseline survey was conducted across nine sub-counties, involving 450 household heads selected through multistage sampling. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS v20, while qualitative data from focus group discussions (n=9) and key informant interviews (n=18) underwent thematic analysis with NVivo v11. Ethical approval was obtained from Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital’s ISERC.
Results:
Respondents had a mean age of 47.7 years, with 53.3% female. Misconceptions were widespread: 23.5% believed epilepsy is caused by witchcraft and 23.8% thought it is contagious. Nearly half (44.2%) perceived epilepsy as a barrier to social inclusion, particularly in Bobasi and Nyaribari Masaba sub-counties. Only 1.6% demonstrated excellent understanding of treatment options, while 58% were unaware of the rights of people with epilepsy. Despite this, 76% sought initial care from health facilities, though 17.3% turned to traditional healers. Policy awareness was strikingly low, with 97.8% unaware of epilepsy-related programs, and 99.3% uninformed about existing networks or partnerships.
Conclusion:
Widespread misconceptions, limited awareness of rights, and low policy engagement contribute to persistent stigma and poor social integration for persons with epilepsy in Kisii. Strengthening primary health care through community education, policy advocacy, and integration of culturally sensitive epilepsy services is essential for reducing stigma and improving care.
Keywords: Epilepsy, Non-Communicable Diseases, Stigma, Primary Health Care, Kenya, Community Perceptions
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Government of Kenya |
| Position | County Cancers & Non Communicable Diseases Coordinator, Kisii |
| Received a Grant? | No |
| If yes, give grant details | NA |
