Article

The aim of this study is to identify the most relevant psychosocial difficulties
(PSDs) experienced by persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS);
to evaluate the
relation between an overall level of PSDs measured with the PARADISE-24 and other
variables; to assess which factors may predict PARADISE-24 overall score. Adults
PwMS were consecutively enrolled and completed a battery of eight self-reported
instruments (i.e. SCQ, EUROHIS-QOL 8, BRS, BFI-10, JSPE,
OSS-3, WHODAS-12,
PARADISE-24). A clinical evaluation was performed for each patient and the
Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score was determined by neurologists. A
total of 80 PwMS, mean age 41.0, 65% women, 62% married, and 76.3% working, 86.3%
relapsing-remitting MS, with an EDSS median score of 1.5, took part in the study.
The mean disease duration was 7.7 years. The most frequently reported PSDs
involved motor and emotional functioning. Free of charge access to medicines;
health treatments and family, friends and health professionals' assistance
represented the most important facilitators. WHODAS-12 and EUROHIS-QOL 8 were
excluded from regression because of their strong correlation with PARADISE-24.
EDSS, BRS, OSS-3, and neuroticism were the main predictors of the PARADISE-24
score. Despite MS heterogeneity, a common pattern of PSDs can be observed among
PwMS. The level of physical impairment and personal resilience were the main
predictors of the overall level of PSDs in PwMS, with a lower but significant
additional role played by social support and personality traits. Attention to
PSDs and their predictors, using PARADISE-24, can help clinicians to plan
tailored and personalized rehabilitation programs.

Langue : ANGLAIS