A recent survey carried out by the UK National Society for Epilepsy (NSE) has uncovered an alarming gap in the public's knowledge about epilepsy. “There is still widespread ignorance about this condition. Our members often face negative, old-fashioned attitudes” reports Philip Lee (Epilepsy Action News, UK, 19 May 2003).

The aim of the survey was to ascertain the level of public understanding of epilepsy and of how to recognize and respond appropriately to someone having a seizure, and to clear up some of the misconceptions that surround the condition.

Most people would recognize someone having a seizure if they fell to the ground and shook uncontrollably. However, less known are 'absence seizures', whereby the person simply looks blank. The recognition of this form of seizure is particularly important in schools to ensure that students are treated for the condition, rather than being regarded as a 'day dreamer'.

More than a quarter of people surveyed would try to restrain someone having a seizure, and almost a third would put something in their mouth. “Both actions are outdated, inappropriate, potentially dangerous and should be avoided” (National Society for Epilepsy, UK, 19 May 2003). Your best bet is to protect the person's head with something soft, and don't put your fingers in their mouth or you might get a surprise.

Worryingly, the survey discovered that 2% of people believe epilepsy is caused by possession by evil spirits (BBC News Online, UK, 18 May 2003) and that a similar percentage wrongly believe that they can catch the condition by touching someone who has it.

The survey's findings confirm the need for ongoing public education about epilepsy. Accordingly, the NSE has launched a 'Get it Right' campaign to encourage greater awareness.