Global Perspectives in Epilepsy Management: An Integrated Review of Related Literature
This study is basically centered on the global perspectives in epilepsy management. The authors reviewed literature on epilepsy management in non-western and western contexts. The study reveals the ancient history, thought to be a spiritual condition since time immemorial. The authors examined the perceptions of the native tribes of Central and South America who still associate epilepsy with evil spirits and witchcraft. Some Asians too, have disregarded the western concept of epilepsy of epilepsy management in spite of the substantial economic development and improvement in health services and analysis was carried out on their perceptions towards the causes and treatment of epilepsy. In Africa, the reaction to epilepsy has been described as being shaped by traditional beliefs surprisingly similar to each other. Finally, the authors examined epilepsy within the western context. Conclusions drawn from these discussions show that despite the reported progress on anti-epilepsy medication, the supernatural views of epilepsy continue to dominate the perceptions of people towards the causes and treatment of epilepsy in non-western countries. For epilepsy treatment, many people especially those in non-western countries remain deeply rooted in spiritual and traditional medicines. Anti-epilepsy medications are continuously referred to as “western practices” in some non-western countries that are particular about their traditional knowledge. The attitudes of past societies towards epilepsy have left a legacy of stigma and damaging misconceptions which still persist today in non-western countries.
Global Perspectives, Epilepsy, Epilepsy Management, Non-Western Countries, Western Countries
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