Publications by authors named "S Simpson-Yap"
Background: Upper limb dysfunction is a common debilitating feature of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). We aimed to examine the longitudinal trajectory of the iPad®-based Manual Dexterity Test (MDT) and predictors of change over time.
Methods: We prospectively enrolled RRMS patients (limited to Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) < 4).
Introduction: Modifiable lifestyle risk factors for progression of multiple sclerosis (MS) have been increasingly studied. This study employed a single-group design involving a one-off intensive live-in educational workshop on lifestyle modification for people with MS. We aimed to examine changes in a range of clinical and lifestyle variables and quality of life, self-efficacy, physical impact of MS and disability from baseline to 3- and 5-years post-intervention.
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- - The study investigates the impact of sun exposure on the risk of progressive-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) compared to relapse-onset multiple sclerosis (ROMS), finding that increased sun exposure is linked to a lower risk for both types.
- - Data was gathered from two nationwide studies, including environmental UV radiation exposure prior to the first MS symptoms among 153 POMS cases, 204 ROMS cases, and 558 control participants.
- - Results indicate that higher cumulative sun exposure reduces the onset risk for both POMS and ROMS, with a stronger effect observed for POMS, suggesting that lifelong sun exposure plays an important role in MS risk.
Background: Previous natural history studies highlighted a consistent heterogeneity of disability trajectories among individuals with primary or secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). However, evidence on disability progression in relapsing onset MS is scarce.The aim of this study was to investigate heterogeneity in disability accumulation over 10 years following a first clinical diagnosis of central nervous system demyelination (FCD) and identify genetic, demographic, environmental and clinical factors associated with these trajectories.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Digital health interventions increase access to multiple sclerosis (MS)-related knowledge for people living with MS; however, our understanding of factors associated with engagement in web-based learning is limited.
Objective: This study aims to examine associations between participant sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle-related characteristics and the commencement and completion of the Multiple Sclerosis Online Course (MSOC) in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).
Methods: An intervention course was developed based on the Overcoming MS Program-an evidence-based lifestyle modification program for MS, and a standard care course was developed based on international MS website information.