A pilot study of young adults with multiple sclerosis: demographic, disease, treatment, and psychosocial characteristics.

摘要: Background Although multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurologic disease disabling younger adults, very little known about characteristics of young adults with MS and impact on their lives. Objectives To conduct a pilot study demographic, disease, treatment, psychosocial (aged 18 31 years). Methods We solicited participation from all 452 members Registry North American Research Committee On Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS) Project aged to years, collecting data 100 these (22%) by computer-assisted telephone interviews. Data included basic treatment characteristics, ratings satisfaction access quality mental health care, beliefs current future Results Participants were 93% female averaged 28.6 years age, 88% had relapsing-remitting MS. Forty-three percent received majority MS-focused care at an clinic 94% seen neurologist in previous 12 months. More than 40% reported depressive symptoms time survey. These relatively low rates concern present but higher worry future. Conclusions findings suggest need for larger, representative sample guide development programs, interventions, services tailored meet needs.