The MS in America Study was conducted over the internet from November 2012 until January 2013. The primary goal of the study was to establish an understanding of the curent state and trends of patients affected by Multiple Sclerosis. The survey included over 100 questions on a broad range of topics. A total of 3,437 people started the survey while 2,562 people completed the survey resulting in a high completion rate of 74.5%. To qualify for the survey, participants had to be MS patients over 18 years old and a US resident or US citizen living abroad.
The study was solely developed and funded by Health Union, LLC which does not manufacture, sell nor market any product to diagnose, prevent or treat MS or any other disease.
We have highlighted some of the findings in the studies in 8 different sections.
Section 1: Demographics & Early Signs of MS
MS in America Participant Demographic
n= 3,425
Most Participants First Experience MS Symptoms in their 20’s or 30’s…
At what age did you first experience MS-related symptoms, or symptoms which you later identified as being related to MS?
n= 3,155
…but aren’t diagnosed until their 30’s or 40’s
At what age were you diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis?
n= 3,155
Numbness, tingling or other altered sensations are most common initial MS symptoms
What were your most significant initial symptoms?(Select up to three)
n= 3,132