To document the prevalence, severity, burden and management of MS physical symptoms across Europe.To document the prevalence, severity, burden and management of MS physical symptoms across Europe.
To document the prevalence, severity, burden and management of MS physical symptoms across Europe.To document the prevalence, severity, burden and management of MS physical symptoms across Europe.To document the prevalence, severity, burden and management of MS physical symptoms across Europe.
In total 17,151 PwMS from 22 countries responded (mean age 44.4 ± 11.7 years), 81% female, with a disease duration 10.4 ± 9 years (range:0-69), 70% relapse-remitting MS, disability status (Patient Determined Disease Steps): mild 19%, moderate 43%, severe 14%. On average, 13.7 symptoms were reported to be present. Fatigue was the most prevalent and debilitating symptom. Balance dysfunction was the most prevalent physical symptom (75%) followed by muscle weakness, spasticity, mobility (57%) and hand function (43%). However, mobility was the number 3 in symptoms mentioned to be debilitating, followed by balance dysfunction (number 5). For management, 52% of pwMS reported to attend physiotherapy. 44% reported lifestyle physical activity including sports and yoga. Regarding satisfaction with symptoms management, physical symptoms felt better managed than other MS symptoms as fatigue, pain or cognition, or heat sensitivity. However, 30% of more felt it was not adequately managed.
The IMSS survey revealed the prevalence, severity, and impact of symptoms in PwMS in Europe, and their need for multi-faceted treatment options. Regarding physical symptoms, balance dysfunction was reported as most prevalent but mobility issues may be most impactful.
The results call for continued development of coordinated strategies to reduce the impact of symptoms, and implement existing evidence into clinical practice as not all pwMS felt that physical functions were well managed.
management
symptoms
