A new study conducted in two tertiary hospitals in northern Nigeria has identified critical factors that influence successful epilepsy treatment outcomes.
The research, made available to journalists on Thursday, followed 234 epilepsy patients over two years and found that 63 per cent of those treated with anti-epileptic drug (AED) monotherapy achieved complete seizure control.
Published in Acta Neurologica Scandinavica, the study revealed that patients who were older, female, educated, employed, or had strong family support were significantly more likely to achieve seizure control. Medication compliance and regular clinic attendance also emerged as key predictors of successful treatment.
Alarmingly, 75 per cent of patients had initially sought traditional or spiritual interventions before seeking medical care – contributing to delays in effective treatment. The study also highlighted socioeconomic barriers such as poverty and lack of transport as major reasons patients missed clinic appointments or failed to take their medication regularly.
Lead author and academic researcher at Ahmadu Bello University, Dr Reginald Obiakor said the findings underscored the need for greater public awareness, stronger family engagement and decentralised treatment options to improve access and adherence.
“This study shows that epilepsy can be managed effectively if patients are supported through education, consistent medical care and community backing,” Obiakor said.
He urged policymakers to develop national strategies that integrate community health workers and educate families, particularly in rural areas where epilepsy is often misunderstood and stigmatised.
Despite the promising findings, the study cautioned that a significant number of patients still struggle with poor seizure control due to non-compliance, economic hardship and reliance on non-medical alternatives.
According to Science Nigeria, epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes recurrent seizures triggered by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. The condition can affect anyone and may be caused by brain injury, infections, or unknown factors.
There are two main types of seizures: focal seizures, which affect part of the brain, and generalised seizures, which affect the entire brain. Treatment typically involves AEDs. With proper management, many people with epilepsy can lead healthy and productive lives.
