Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p> Background Neurocysticercosis is the leading preventable cause of acquired epilepsy in endemic countries. However, community knowledge of neurocysticercosis remains poorly documented in Burkina Faso, where <italic>Taenia solium</italic> is endemic. This study assessed community knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding neurocysticercosis and epilepsy, and identified factors associated with knowledge in the Kombissiri Health District. A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April 2026 among 470 adults selected using a three-stage stratified sampling method. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire, and factors associated with knowledge were identified using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results Only 28.5% of participants had heard of neurocysticercosis, whereas 86.4% were aware of epilepsy. Among respondents familiar with epilepsy, 58.7% considered the disease contagious. Stigmatizing attitudes remained common, with 43.6% of participants reporting that they would conceal epilepsy within their family and 34.0% opposing the schooling of a child with epilepsy. Risk behaviors favoring <italic>Taenia solium</italic> transmission were also reported. In the event of an epileptic seizure, 77.0% of participants stated that they would refer the affected person to a health facility, although 46.0% reported that they would not provide any immediate assistance. Higher educational attainment was independently associated with better knowledge of both neurocysticercosis and epilepsy. Younger age, pig farming, and pork consumption were additionally associated with better knowledge of neurocysticercosis, whereas previous contact with a person with epilepsy was associated with better knowledge of epilepsy. Conclusions Community knowledge of neurocysticercosis remains limited, while misconceptions and stigma surrounding epilepsy persist in this cysticercosis-endemic setting. These findings support the implementation of integrated One Health interventions combining health education, stigma reduction, and <italic>Taenia solium</italic> control to improve epilepsy awareness and prevent neurocysticercosis in Burkina Faso. </p>