Abstract:
Lathyrism, characterized by spastic par paresis, is a neurotoxin disorder caused by excessive consumption of grass pea (lathyrus sativus). Several myths about lathyrism are prevalent in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to
identify the level of awareness of this disease in the grass pea growing areas of Ethiopia and to identify barriers to the adoption of preventive methods. Methods: cross-sectional survey using a standardized questionnaire on levels of
awareness (KAP) of lathyrism, and its prevention methods was carried between February and May 1998 in 15 weredas of lathyrus growing areas of Ethiopia. The questionnaire contained general knowledge of lathyrism, its etiology, treatment, respondent’s perceived ability to prevent lathyrism and practices of specific lathyrism prevention behavior. The selected survey weredas were Gubalafto, Habro, Grado, Abasokuto, Asigido, Laylay Maichew, Dembia, Gonder Zuria, Bahirdar Zuria, Yilmana Densa, Girar Jarso, Ginbichy, Akaki, Woloncomi and Becho. The survey included a systematic sample of 450 housewives, survey interviews were conducted in the respondents’ homes. Results: Of total of 450 questionnaires distributed, all 100% were correctly completed and analyzed. More than 60% of the housewives recognized the role of consuming grass pea alone for a long time as a factor of lathyrism and that the disease can be prevented. The proportion of housewives who believed that lathyrism was caused by evil spirits (12.2%); anger of God (14.2%); and germs (12.9%) are significantly lower (p<0.05) than those who believed that, walking in grass pea plantation (20.4%); sleeping on grass pea husk after harvest(24.0%) and walking over lathyrus soak or cook water (21.7%) as risk factor for nurolathyrism. Similarly, 131(29.1%) of the housewives mentioned that consuming grass pea with dairy products (milk butter or cheese) and meat can cause the disease. A total of 105(23.4%) of the population also responded that neurolathyrise can be treated in a hospital or a health center. In contrast, 134 (29.8%), 40 (8.9%) and 64(14.2%), respectively, of housewives were uncertain whether or not neurolathyrism is caused by over-consumption of grass pea alone, could be treated, or prevented. Conclusion: Although the present can be very useful for planning or evaluation lathyrism control activities a serious and consistent effort through public health activities is essential to educate villagers about lathyrism, its cause, and prevention.