By Chinedu Akpa. B. Pharm. Freelance Health Writer. Medically reviewed by the DLHA Team.
Epilepsy in Africa: Commons myths and misconceptions.
Did you know that epilepsy is a treatable, but not curable condition? Despite this, myths and misconceptions about epilepsy persist across sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to the continent’s high prevalence of untreated epilepsy, with an estimated 10 million people affected. [1]
Before learning more about the common myths and misconceptions about epilepsy in Africa, it is important that you get clarity about what myths and misconceptions are, how they occur and the difference between them.
According to the Britannica, a myth is usually of unknown origin. It is a symbolic account or expression that relates actual events to deeply rooted traditions and religious beliefs of communities.
Myths are usually expressed as specific accounts of gods or superhuman beings involved in unspecified extraordinary events or circumstances that occur outside the existing control of ordinary human experience.
To give an example, in many African tradico-religious, and “New Generation” religious congregations, some of the dramatic symptoms of epilepsy are consciously or subconsciously simulated in cultural practices during prayers and supplication ceremonies to the gods, for the deliverance of members from “evil spirit”. Which is partly why, in many African communities, the myth and misconception that epilepsy is brought on by the evil spirit is very strong.
The Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries defines misconception as “a belief or an idea that is not based on correct information, or that is not understood by people”.
It is evident from the definitions given above that the difference between myths and misconceptions centres on the fact that "myths" are typically rooted in tradition and cultural beliefs that evoke supernatural forces; and are used to explain natural phenomena or cultural practices that are considered beyond human control. "Misconception" on the other hand is simply an incorrect belief or understanding about something. It is usually based on faulty information or reasoning, and not necessarily tied to a specific cultural account.
Myths often have a deeper cultural significance than misconceptions.
Epilepsy is a disorder in which extensive and disorganised electrical signals (discharges) from cells of the brain (called neurons) happen spontaneously, without provocation and inhibition. These electrical discharges occur in uncontrolled and uncoordinated ways that would explain the symptoms experienced during an epileptic attack.
Click here to learn more about the types, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy.
Myths and misconceptions are major challenges facing those with epilepsy in Africa. They play significant roles in the widespread stigma that hinders access to modern medical care, negatively impacting the mental health of people living with epilepsy, and restricting their social connections.
Low health literacy level, cultural and religious beliefs, and rural dwelling are among several factors driving the misconception and mythical accounts about epilepsy in Africa.
The following myths and misconceptions about epilepsy have been documented following studies conducted across countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. [2]
On Epilepsy Treatment [3]
Believing in these myths and misconceptions could prove costly to those with epilepsy. [2] It could cause the following:
1. Delayed treatment: Many have complained of not getting any better after several visits to traditional healers, thereby prompting them to seek treatment in the hospital but by the time this happens they would have wasted time with the traditional healers.
2. Financial loss: You could end up spending your money with traditional healers and still not get the result you desire.
3. Stigma and discrimination: Part of the consequences of the stigma and discrimination experienced by people with epilepsy are isolation, exclusion from social gatherings, verbal abuse, and a rejection by potential marriage partners.
4. Mental health impact: Anxiety, and depression are quite common among those with epilepsy. The reasons for these are unclear, but isolation and societal rejection of people living with epilepsy may be contributory factors.
As some of the major drivers of epilepsy myths and misconceptions in sub-Saharan Africa are deeply rooted in culture, religion, illiteracy and poverty among other factors, the steps needed to address them will include: [2]
There should be increased public awareness about epilepsy on both social media and traditional media channels across the continent about the causes and management of epilepsy.
National policies should be implemented to protect people living with epilepsy from stigmatisation and to provide social care and support for dignified and healthy living.
The eradication or reduction of poverty and improvement of access to education and low cost but qualitative healthcare can reduce the reliance on myths and misconceptions about epilepsy and of course several other chronic health conditions.
Epilepsy related myths and misconceptions in sub-Saharan Africa perpetuate stigma, delayed treatment, and limit opportunities for those affected. Addressing these myths and misconceptions through education, awareness campaigns, and improved socio-economic conditions is essential to combat for national health security and development. By fostering understanding and dispelling harmful beliefs, society can ensure that individuals with epilepsy receive the care, respect, and the support they deserve.
1. Muazu J, Kaita AH. A review of traditional plants used in the treatment of epilepsy amongst the Hausa/Fulani tribes of northern Nigeria. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2008 Jun 18;5(4):387-90. doi: 10.4314/ajtcam.v5i4.31294. Available from here
2. Kaddumukasa M, Kaddumukasa MN, Buwembo W, Munabi IG, Blixen C, Lhatoo S, Sewankambo N, Katabira E, Sajatovic M. Epilepsy misconceptions and stigma reduction interventions in sub-Saharan Africa, a systematic review. Epilepsy Behav. 2018 Aug;85:21-27. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.04.014. Available from here.
3. Osungbade KO, Siyanbade SL. Myths, misconceptions, and misunderstandings about epilepsy in a Nigerian rural community: Implications for community health interventions. Epilepsy & Behavior, 2011, 21(4), 425-429, doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2011.05.014. Available from here.
Related:
Epilepsy in Africa: Types, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Epilepsy: An Awareness Guide for Africans
Published: December 3, 2024
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