Awareness About Epilepsy Among Schoolteachers in the Northern Border Region, Saudi Arabia

Introduction: Epilepsy is a worldwide neurological problem. First aid management is essential to control the fits and minimize the complications. This study aims to evaluate the awareness of epilepsy among schoolteachers in the Northern Border Region, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated questionnaire in Arabic to assess awareness about epilepsy among schoolteachers in the Northern Border Region, Saudi Arabia. Descriptive and contingency statistics were used to assess the data collected. Results: The study enrolled 366 teachers after they gave their consent. The majority were females (56%) and qualified by a bachelor’s degree. (82%). Knowledge questions showed an overall average knowledge score of 3.4 ± 1.3 (ranging from 1-6). 212 participants (57.9%) had satisfactory knowledge scores (>3). The highest scores were given in questions about the etiology of epilepsy (93.7% correct responses), while the lowest level of correct answers was observed in the question about indications of hospitalization (24% correct responses). Place of work, years of experience, and positive family history of epilepsy or witnessing seized children significantly affect the knowledge scores (p-value = 0.008, 0.03, and <0.000, respectively) with, significantly, more knowledge among younger-aged teachers and teachers working in primary schools. Conclusion: Overall knowledge about epilepsy among schoolteachers is improving, but there is a need for more awareness activities and first aid training, which includes activities such as graduating schoolteachers from university programs.