Symptoms, Prevalence and Impact of Multiple Sclerosis in Younger Patients: A Multinational Survey

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) has a marked negative impact on patients' well-being and quality of life through a range of symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This on-line survey was designed to determine younger MS patients' (≤35 years) assessment of their disease and the prevalence of MS symptoms in four European countries (Germany, Italy, Norway and Spain). RESULTS: Prior to diagnosis, 62% of 200 interviewed subjects were unaware of the likely impact of MS. Fatigue (61%) was the most common single symptom reported by these younger MS patients, followed by six other symptoms with a prevalence >50% (visual disturbances, impaired mobility, dizziness, pain, spasticity and sleep disorders); related impairments were also often reported. Eighty-six percent of respondents indicated that their ability to work or study was negatively affected (39% could no longer participate in these activities), and 85% were unable to maintain their previous level of social interactions (one third frequently or never attended social activities). CONCLUSIONS: MS is a highly symptomatic disease, even in younger persons (aged ≤35 years) with a short disease history, and its management to improve activities associated with daily living and quality of life remains a challenge. There is an unmet need for more effective MS symptom treatment options.