Evaluation of Pharmacists’ knowledge of women’s issues in epilepsy: A cross-sectional study in Miri General Hospital

Abstract

Introduction:

Women with epilepsy encounter more gender-related issues even though epilepsy affects men and women equally. This challenges many health care professionals, including pharmacists, in delivering healthcare for women with epilepsy. The purpose of this study was to assess pharmacists’ knowledge of women’s issues in epilepsy in Miri General Hospital.

Method:

In this cross-sectional study we used the valid and reliable 10-item KOWIE-II questionnaire that assesses knowledge on women’s issues in general as well as pregnancy-related issues. Demographic details collected. A percentage correct score calculated per pharmacist.

Results:

Our sample consisted of 50 completed surveys. The median correct score was only 50% with an IQR of 42.5. Most of the pharmacists (88%) correctly answered the statement inquiring about the interaction between enzyme-inducing AEDs and contraceptives and 64% of them knew of the issue of AED-induced bone loss while 62% of the pharmacists either incorrectly answered the statement on the higher frequency of sexual dysfunction in women with epilepsy or opted for the “I don’t know” option. Most of the pharmacists (76%) stated “I don’t know” when asked about the relationship between hormones and seizure control. More than 50% correctly answer four of the six statements (continued AED adherence during pregnancy (78%), role of folic acid in reducing teratogenesis in children born to women with epilepsy taking AEDs (74%), healthy baby (62%), vitamin K supplementation = 58%). Fewer pharmacists knew that women taking AEDs can safely breastfeed (40%) and only 38% of the pharmacists able to correctly answer the question on the best choice of AED during pregnancy.

Conclusion:

Although pharmacists are knowledgeable about women’s issues in epilepsy in some areas, there are still gaps in knowledge in certain issues that need educational interventions.