Epilepsy is a disabling disease which has not been adequately emphasised as a public
health concern. Patients are often left in the dark about their disease, affecting their ability to cope and live a normal life. This study aimed to explore and evaluate the effects of a structured epilepsy education programme (EEP) on awareness, knowledge and attitude (AKA) and coping mechanism of patients. Recruited participants were required to complete the modified Malay AKA epilepsy questionnaire and Malay brief coping orientation to problem experienced (Brief COPE)-27. Upon completion, they received a structured EEP conducted by trained personnel using validated materials. Participants were then followed up for a period of 6 months and reassessed at 1, 3 and 6 months to measure any changes in their AKA and coping mechanisms. Twenty-two participants were successfully recruited. Total AKA score of participants showed a significant increase (mean score difference = 16.3, p = 0.021, 95% CI: 3.0, 28.1) at 6 months post-EEP. This improvement was mostly contributed by the increase in both knowledge and attitude scores. Religion was the most preferred coping mechanism (82.5%), followed by instrumental support, emotional support, active coping and acceptance at 75.0%, respectively. Only three domains showed significant differences after the educational programme: planning: 62.5% versus 77.5%, p = 0.026; denial: 57.5% versus 37.5%, p = 0.004; venting: 62.5% versus 52.5%, p = 0.004. The EEP was effective in improving attitude and knowledge while bringing about changes in coping skills of patients over a period of time. Educational programmes should be part of epilepsy standard of care, especially as they are inexpensive and brief yet impactful
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