Is it MS? Survey Results

The Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) has published the results of its ‘Is it MS?’ survey. The survey was carried out in early 2012 with over 4000 people taking part, sharing their experience of being diagnosed with MS.

The survey captures significant information on the lead-up to diagnosis, revealing commonalties in people’s experiences. The findings provide a useful reference point for people who are both pre-and post-diagnosis, offering insight into MS symptoms.

Here are some of the survey’s findings.

•    Eighty one percent of respondents were female; this figure reflects the general trend of female to male ratio.

•    Sixty three percent of respondents have relapsing remitting MS.

•    Fifty eight percent of respondents said they went to the doctor within 6 months of experiencing the first onset of their MS symptoms.

•    Early symptoms included:
    o    58 percent of people experienced numbness
    o    43 per cent had problems with vision.
    o    34 per cent of people experienced fatigue
    o    34 per cent of people experienced weakness, which alerted them to a potential health problem.

•    Seventy eight percent of respondents said they did not have an idea it was MS. Of the 78 percent of respondents, 33 per cent of people attributed their symptoms to stress and tiredness.

•    On seeking medical help, 43 per cent of respondents said their doctor was very supportive - 71 per cent were referred to a neurologist, while 11 percent weren’t referred to another doctor.

A summary of the results is available to download. Results have also been included in July 2012 issue of MS in Focus titled ‘Is it MS?’ This issue includes both insight on the process of getting an MS diagnosis and the journey which follows.

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