Evidence-Based Interventions to Reduce Stigma and Enhance Quality of Life for People Living with Epilepsy in Shiwang’andu District, Zambia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59413/ajocs/v6.i4.21Keywords:
Epilepsy, Stigma, quality of life, community education, mobile clinics, anti-discrimination policies, Shiwang’andu, ZambiaAbstract
This study proposes evidence-based interventions to mitigate stigma and improve the quality of life (QoL) for people living with epilepsy (PLWE) in Shiwang’andu District, Zambia, a rural area where cultural misconceptions exacerbate discrimination. Using a mixed-methods case study approach, guided by Goffman’s Theory of Social Stigma and Link and Phelan’s Stigma Process Model, data were collected from 62 participants via questionnaires and 18 semi-structured interviews. Findings indicate strong support for community education programs (88.7%), mobile epilepsy clinics (80.6%), and anti-discrimination policies (77.4%) to address stigma and enhance QoL. These interventions target cultural beliefs, negative community attitudes, and healthcare access barriers, aligning with global and regional strategies. The study contributes to Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), offering a blueprint for culturally sensitive interventions to foster inclusion and improve well-being for PLWE in rural Zambia.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Tabitha Sampa, Priscilla Munkombwe Lesa, Elizabeth Zyambo (Author)
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