Understanding Electroconvulsive Therapy Awareness Among Patients in Karachi
Author Information
Author(s): Arshad Mehreen, Arham Ahmad Zafir, Arif Mansoor, Bano Maria, Bashir Ayisha, Bokutz Munira, Choudhary Maria Maqbool, Naqvi Haider, Khan Murad Moosa
Primary Institution: Aga Khan University
Hypothesis
What are the awareness and perceptions regarding electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) among psychiatric patients in Karachi, Pakistan?
Conclusion
There is a significant lack of information about ECT among psychiatric patients, influenced by education and media portrayals.
Supporting Evidence
- 74% of patients were aware of ECT.
- Education level significantly impacted awareness of ECT (p = 0.009).
- The most common source of information about ECT was media (38%).
- 62% of patients believed ECT would have serious side effects.
Takeaway
Many patients in Karachi have heard of electroconvulsive therapy, but they have a lot of misconceptions about it, often thinking it's dangerous or only for last-resort treatments.
Methodology
A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study conducted at two tertiary care hospitals in Karachi.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from self-reported data and the influence of media on patient perceptions.
Limitations
The study may not represent all psychiatric patients in Pakistan due to its specific hospital settings.
Participant Demographics
190 patients, nearly equal gender distribution, varied education levels, primarily diagnosed with mood disorders.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.001
Confidence Interval
95%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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