Published in:
Open Access
01-12-2022 | Multiple Sclerosis | Research
Barriers to quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis: a qualitative study
Authors:
Zahra Hosseini, Atefeh Homayuni, Masoud Etemadifar
Published in:
BMC Neurology
|
Issue 1/2022
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Abstract
Background
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive disease of the central nervous system that affects the patients’ quality of life. This research was conducted with the aim of identifying the barriers of quality of life in patients with MS.
Methods
This qualitative study was conducted through a conventional content analysis approach. We used the purposeful sampling with maximum diversity in terms of gender, age, education, marital status and employment. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 18 patients with multiple sclerosis referred to the MS Association of Isfahan. Interviews were conducted to the point of information saturation.
Results
Through the content analysis of the interviews, we identified 2 main categories and 11 sub-categories. The main categories include intrapersonal problems (physical problems, psychological disorders, turbulent future, functional limitations, job loss and pennilessness), and environmental barriers (disease and treatment process, fatigue of caregivers, information deficiency about MS, family tensions, lack of social support and fun and entertainment).
Conclusions
In order to improve the quality of life in these patients, there is a need for attention and practical measures in the field of identified factors. By removing barriers such as providing educational and counseling services to the patients and their families, adapting the urban structure, providing financial support and adequate insurance coverage, the authorities can take measures to ensure patients’ health and improve their quality of life.