Cambios en las actitudes, conocimientos y prácticas de adolescentes y docentes sobre epilepsia tras la intervención educativa, Zhidmad Azuay 2011

Abstract

Objective: A quasi-experimental study with the goal of changing knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding epilepsy through educational intervention for primary school teachers and high school students in the town of Zhidmad province of Azuay in 2011.

Methods: A total of 275 standardized surveys were given to students and teachers of the town of Zhidmad, After that it was provided information about the population in study and for measuring the impact of the intervention, it was applied the same post-intervention survey.

Results: Significant changes were achieved (p <0.05) one of the main ones was to increase knowledge about the disease only in the student's group. There was a low number of individuals that known people with the decease as well the "what to do" with the observation of seizures attack. The knowledge about the cause of epilepsy was extended in both groups also the attitudes of both populations were improved on work, education, intelligence and sex life in people with epilepsy.The perception of both groups on discrimination against people with epilepsy could not be changed with the intervention. The practices before a seizure in both groups were improved, with statistically significant results.

Conclusions: The educational intervention met the goals set and provided the community with tools to better handle the disease.