Contributions
Abstract: P309
Type: Poster
Abstract Category: Clinical aspects of MS - Epidemiology
Background: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is very common in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) and contributes a significant burden of disease, particularly for young people. SD has direct neurologically mediated and indirect contributions via depression and fatigue, which occur commonly in PwMS. Modifiable factors may represent potential targets for treatment and prevention of SD.
Objective: We aimed to assess the prevalence of SD and explore associations between SD and demographic and modifiable risk factors, as well as depression and fatigue in a large cohort of PwMS.
Methods: We analysed self-reported data from a large, international sample of PwMS recruited via Web 2.0 platforms, including demographic, lifestyle and disease characteristics. Specific sexual function questions included 4 items from the sexual function scale and 1 item regarding satisfaction with sexual function, part of the MS Quality of Life-54 instrument.
Results: Of 2062 PwMS from 54 countries completing questions on sexual function, 81.1% were women, mean age 45 years, mostly (62.8%) with relapsing-remitting MS. The majority (54.5%) reported one or more problems with sexual function and were classified as having SD. Lack of sexual interest (41.8% of women), and difficulty with erection (40.7% of men) were most common. The median total sexual function score was 75.0 out of 100, and 43.7% were satisfied with their sexual function. Regression modeling revealed significant independent associations between sexual function and satisfaction and a range of demographic factors, including age, but not gender, as well as depression risk, antidepressant use, and fatigue in PwMS.
Conclusion: In addition to associations of depression risk and fatigue with SD and lack of satisfaction with sexual function, this cross-sectional study shows that modifiable lifestyle factors diet and physical activity were associated with the outcomes, independent of their previously demonstrated strong associations with depression and fatigue. Planned longitudinal follow-up of this sample may help clarify these associations and the underlying mechanisms. There is significant potential to prevent and treat SD in PwMS by addressing depression and fatigue and their determinants. Clinicians and PwMS should be aware of SD and associated factors as part of a comprehensive preventive approach to managing MS.
Disclosure: The Bloom Foundation and the Horne Family Charitable Trust supported this study.
Claudia H Marck: nothing to disclose
Pia L Jelinek: nothing to disclose
Tracey J Weiland: nothing to disclose
Jane S Hocking: nothing to disclose
Keryn L Taylor: facilitates educational lifestyle interventions for people with MS
Sandra L Neate: nothing to disclose
Naresh G Pereira: nothing to disclose
George A Jelinek: receives royalties from his book "Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis"
Abstract: P309
Type: Poster
Abstract Category: Clinical aspects of MS - Epidemiology
Background: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is very common in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) and contributes a significant burden of disease, particularly for young people. SD has direct neurologically mediated and indirect contributions via depression and fatigue, which occur commonly in PwMS. Modifiable factors may represent potential targets for treatment and prevention of SD.
Objective: We aimed to assess the prevalence of SD and explore associations between SD and demographic and modifiable risk factors, as well as depression and fatigue in a large cohort of PwMS.
Methods: We analysed self-reported data from a large, international sample of PwMS recruited via Web 2.0 platforms, including demographic, lifestyle and disease characteristics. Specific sexual function questions included 4 items from the sexual function scale and 1 item regarding satisfaction with sexual function, part of the MS Quality of Life-54 instrument.
Results: Of 2062 PwMS from 54 countries completing questions on sexual function, 81.1% were women, mean age 45 years, mostly (62.8%) with relapsing-remitting MS. The majority (54.5%) reported one or more problems with sexual function and were classified as having SD. Lack of sexual interest (41.8% of women), and difficulty with erection (40.7% of men) were most common. The median total sexual function score was 75.0 out of 100, and 43.7% were satisfied with their sexual function. Regression modeling revealed significant independent associations between sexual function and satisfaction and a range of demographic factors, including age, but not gender, as well as depression risk, antidepressant use, and fatigue in PwMS.
Conclusion: In addition to associations of depression risk and fatigue with SD and lack of satisfaction with sexual function, this cross-sectional study shows that modifiable lifestyle factors diet and physical activity were associated with the outcomes, independent of their previously demonstrated strong associations with depression and fatigue. Planned longitudinal follow-up of this sample may help clarify these associations and the underlying mechanisms. There is significant potential to prevent and treat SD in PwMS by addressing depression and fatigue and their determinants. Clinicians and PwMS should be aware of SD and associated factors as part of a comprehensive preventive approach to managing MS.
Disclosure: The Bloom Foundation and the Horne Family Charitable Trust supported this study.
Claudia H Marck: nothing to disclose
Pia L Jelinek: nothing to disclose
Tracey J Weiland: nothing to disclose
Jane S Hocking: nothing to disclose
Keryn L Taylor: facilitates educational lifestyle interventions for people with MS
Sandra L Neate: nothing to disclose
Naresh G Pereira: nothing to disclose
George A Jelinek: receives royalties from his book "Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis"