Presentation description

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the leading cause of non-trauma related disability in young adults, affecting over 2.8 million people globally. MS is an immune-mediated demyelinating condition, characterized by sensory and motor impairment. Social determinants of health (SDOH) are non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. Previous literature examined that neighborhood level SDOH factors led to worsened MS outcomes like motor, cognitive, and relapse recovery rates. This study aims to understand the impact of individual level SDOH factors impacting MS outcomes.
We are conducting a single center prospective study using a SDOH questionnaire and the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 29-item profile (PROMIS-29) to assess the association between individual level SDOH factors and self-reported physical, mental, and social health. Retrospective analysis includes recording clinical neurologic symptoms, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores, and Area Deprivation Index (ADI) data.
A total of 258 respondents participated, mean age of [45.56] (SD= 16.1); 72.5% female at birth. Racial demographics include White/Caucasian (209, 89.7%). 28.2% of patients make less than $50,000 annual household income. 27.0% of patients live more than 100 miles from clinic. 57.6% report lacking affordable housing. 42.4% report lacking healthcare access. 60.6% report lacking mental health resources. We hypothesize that MS outcomes will vary across SDOH factors like area deprivation, race, ethnicity, and income level.
Ultimately, these findings will guide the improvement of MS clinical care models through the integration of SDOH factors into individualized treatment planning and MS management.