Conclusions

Understanding the health experiences, needs and beliefs in communities in Bradford

Conclusions

There is no one particular model of understanding epilepsy within any of the groups - Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs - that participated in the research. Variations can be observed more within each group rather than between groups, pointing to the significance of individual features of gender, age, country of origin and level of education.

Many of our findings are generic to all groups with epilepsy regardless of ethnicity or religion. However this research has shown that the main issues of concern (stigma in relation to social life and more specifically marriage and employment) highlighted by studies 20-30 years ago are still present today.

No evidence of racism was found in patients' experience of health services; however, respondents did have the perception that persons with epilepsy from white (English) communities faced less stigma and discrimination.

The support and encouragement of family members can have a dramatic impact upon the emotional state of people with epilepsy and can also influence the way in which they conduct their lives.

Optimum seizure control was the main goal for people with epilepsy and those who experienced seizures more often were more likely to turn to traditional South Asian therapies, particularly if western medication has proved ineffective in reducing seizures. There is evidence that both treatments were used simultaneously by most South Asian persons with epilepsy.

Four main issues regarding the provision of services for South Asians with epilepsy in Bradford were raised: lack of appropriate information and advice, language and communication barriers, interaction with health professionals and the potential merits of attending support groups.