New research investigating how mobility impairment affects the lives of those with multiple sclerosis (MS) has found a substantial impact on workplace productivity and earnings. Almost three quarters (72%) of those surveyed said their mobility problems had a significant impact on their working lives and nearly two thirds (64%) reported losing earnings due to MS-related mobility issues.[1]

The survey, commissioned by Biogen Idec, examined the issue of mobility impairment in more than 430 people living with MS from six countries. This research supports other previously conducted studies which have consistently found that mobility issues are a top concern for MS patients.[2],[3],[4]

Of those who reported an impact on their working life, more than one third (39%) stated that mobility problems forced them to take time off of work - with some taking up to 40 days from work in the last six months. However, it was encouraging that 83% of respondents felt their employer was supportive.

"The results of this survey reinforce our understanding that the loss of mobility is a leading concern for those diagnosed with multiple sclerosis," said Professor Hans-Peter Hartung, Chairman of the Department of Neurology at Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany.

"We know that MS is a debilitating disease and these results implicate mobility loss as a primary driver in reduced productivity in the workplace. As physicians, we must continue to explore methods and treatments to better manage the physical and psychological impacts from mobility impairment."

The survey examined the life experiences of MS patients in Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Biogen Idec continues to analyze the results and will continue to share data with the broader MS community.

Notes

Methodology

- Research was conducted by an independent market research company.

- Research was carried out between 4 June 2010 and 29 June 2010 utilizing a rigorous and robust questionnaire development process. The questionnaire was validated to ensure compliance with ICC/ESOMAR Code on Market and Social Research (European research guidelines) and the Market Research Society Code of Conduct.

- Respondents were recruited via a mix of patient group liaisons and online recruitment. International patient groups were utilized to recruit MS patients. A network of contacts in each country was also approached. The people invited to take part were pre-screened to ensure that they had been diagnosed with MS and fit the criteria for the research.

- The survey was anonymous and completed online.

- The survey sampled 436 people with MS from Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. They were selected at random to help ensure a result representative of the overall MS patient population.

[1] Mobility in MS Research: Patient Perspectives. Data on File. Biogen Idec. 2010.

2 Heesen C, et al. Multiple Sclerosis 988:14: 2008

[3] Scheinberg, L., Holland, N., LaRocca, N., Laitin, P., Bennett, A., & Hall, H. (1980). Multiple Sclerosis: Earning a living. New York State Journal of Medicine, 80, 1395-1400.

[4] Hemmet L, Holmes J, Barnes M, Russell IN. What drives quality of life in multiple sclerosis, Q J Med. 2004;97;671-676. Quality of life in multiple sclerosis.

Source:
Biogen Idec