Knowledge of Parkinson's Disease, Perceptions of Deep Brain Stimulation, and Attitudes Toward Its Use Among Patients in Morocco: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder requiring informed decision making, especially regarding advanced treatments such as deep brain stimulation (DBS). However, patient knowledge and perceptions in low-resource settings like Morocco remain poorly understood. This study assessed PD patients' knowledge and attitudes/perceptions toward DBS in Morocco. A cross-sectional study was conducted among PD patients in 5 cities in the Casablanca-Settat region. Data were collected using a 7-item PD knowledge tool and a DBS attitudes/perceptions questionnaire. A total of 370 patients were recruited, with a mean PD knowledge score of 4.5 out of 7, with higher scores linked to greater education. Only 31.9% had heard of DBS, and 39.4% were willing to undergo it if recommended. Willingness was higher among patients from the private sector, those with longer disease duration, and those at advanced stages. A common misconception was that DBS cures PD (25.9%). Barriers to DBS access included high cost, fear of surgery, lack of specialists, and insufficient information. Gaps in PD knowledge and misconceptions about DBS persist, highlighting the need for targeted educational initiatives in Morocco.