People with epilepsy still feel stigmatized

Objectives Those affected with epilepsy have long been subject to stigmatization. This may manifold negative effects, for example social isolation, low self-esteem, reduced quality of life and worsening seizures. In Norway educational programs arranged at the National Centre Epilepsy, aiming reducing stigma shame associated epilepsy, thereby increase those their families. Thus, we wanted explore extent self-reported perceived experienced discrimination in a Norwegian cohort epilepsy. Materials Methods We conducted web-based questionnaire survey Norway. Participants were asked provide background epilepsy-related information. addition, they encouraged answer questions regarding felt stigmatization different situations rate according Jacoby scale. Results Of 1182 respondents, 56% reported being stigmatized, 35% solely on ground disease. 70% respondents least one type or stigma. After controlling gender, age, depression seizure freedom, reports was statistically significant independent predictor life. Conclusions A considerable proportion people feel stigmatized and/or discrimination, which negatively affects