Patient experience and self-perceived biopsychosocial burden of people living with multiple sclerosis: An epidemiological survey (BPS-MuScle study) in Spain.

Background: Updated information on the self-perceived biopsychosocial burden and the healthcare experience among people living with multiple sclerosis in Spain is scarce.We aim to describe the self-reported disease experience of patients diagnosed with MS in Spain and to estimate their biopsychosocial burden.

Methods: Multicentre epidemiological study based on a cross-sectional nationwide survey completed by a geographically stratified sample of MS patients in Spain.

Results: A total of 490 surveys completed at 61 neurology units across Spain were analysed. Mean age was 43.7 ± 10.0 years (range:21-72), 71.4% were women. Most patients identified themselves as having relapsing-remitting MS (77.1%), 81.9% retained independent mobility. Most patients considered their health condition to be good (39.4%) or very good (13.1%). Mean EuroQoL questionnaire score was 69.2 ± 21.5. Most patients expressed high level of satisfaction with access to and quality of health care. However, 53.7% considered that sadness or depression interfered with their daily life. Concerns about social support were also mentioned.

Conclusion: Most people living with MS in Spain consider that their health condition is at least good but more psychological support and social protection measures are needed. Insights obtained from this study may help to better manage the condition in the future.