Factors associated with excessive sitting time in multiple sclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Sedentary behavior is a growing concern in the general population and may be particularly prevalent in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Understanding factors contributing to excessive sitting time in MS is crucial for developing targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral factors associated with excessive sitting time in people with MS.
• To identify key predictors of prolonged sedentary behavior in the MS population.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from 6483 individuals with MS from the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis registry (Spring 2015 survey).
• Collected sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral data via self-report questionnaires, including the International Physical Activity Questionnaire for sitting time.
• Employed multivariate binary logistic regression to determine odds ratios for excessive sitting, defined as being above the 75th percentile.

Main Results:

• Participants with moderate, severe ambulatory, and severe non-ambulatory disability showed increased likelihood of excessive sitting (ORs 1.57, 2.62, 8.70, respectively) compared to mild disability.
• Individuals with insufficient physical activity were 2.61 times more likely to be excessive sitters than those sufficiently active.

Conclusions:

• Disability status and physical activity level are significant factors associated with excessive sitting in multiple sclerosis.
• Findings will guide the development of interventions aimed at reducing sedentary behavior and improving quality of life for individuals with MS.