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Updated: Feb 3, 2026
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Sex differences in predictors of illness intrusiveness in persons with multiple sclerosis
Lindsay O Neto1, Elizabeth S Gromisch2, Jessica Sloan3
1Mandell Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, Trinity Health of New England, 490 Blue Hills Avenue, Hartford, CT, 06112, USA. LTuttle@stfranciscare.org.
Purpose:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex, chronic disease that can have debilitating effects on daily activities and well-being, compromising health-related quality of life. One underlying determinant of quality of life (QOL) is perceived illness intrusiveness, which examines the disruptiveness of the condition and/or its related treatment on engagement in interest and activities, in turn affecting psychological functioning. There is evidence that persons with MS (PwMS) have higher level of illness intrusiveness compared to those with other chronic conditions; however, limited research exists on differences by sex. This study aimed to explore these possible differences between men and women, hypothesizing that men with MS will have overall higher illness intrusiveness (lower QOL) when compared to women with MS.
Methods:
A total of 922 PwMS were primarily recruited through the North American Research Committee on MS Registry. The participants completed a one-time anonymous online survey. Illness intrusiveness was measured using the Illness Intrusiveness Ratings Scale (IIRS) total score and three subscales. Independent t-tests determined differences in demographics, disease characteristics, and IIRS outcomes. Hierarchical regressions were then used to further assess whether sex was a significant predictor of illness intrusiveness.
Results:
Men exhibited greater overall, intimacy, and relationship and personal development-related perceived illness intrusiveness. However, sex was only a significant predictor of the Intimacy IIRS subscale after accounting for age, disability, and depression.
Conclusions:
These findings highlight the intrusiveness of MS on intimacy and sexual functioning, particularly among men. Potential clinical implications and future directions are discussed.
Insights
Men with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience greater illness intrusiveness, particularly affecting intimacy and relationships. This study explored sex differences in MS illness intrusiveness and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychology
- Quality of Life Research
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) significantly impacts daily life and quality of life (QOL).
- Perceived illness intrusiveness, the disruption caused by a condition, is a key factor affecting QOL.
- Previous research indicates higher illness intrusiveness in persons with MS (PwMS) compared to other chronic conditions, with limited data on sex differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential differences in illness intrusiveness between men and women with MS.
- To test the hypothesis that men with MS experience higher overall illness intrusiveness, correlating with lower QOL, than women with MS.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 922 persons with MS (PwMS).
- Illness intrusiveness was assessed using the Illness Intrusiveness Ratings Scale (IIRS) total score and subscales.
- Independent t-tests and hierarchical regressions were employed to analyze demographic, disease, and IIRS data, examining sex as a predictor.
Main Results:
- Men with MS reported higher overall illness intrusiveness, and specifically in the intimacy and personal development domains, compared to women.
- Sex emerged as a significant predictor only for the Intimacy IIRS subscale after controlling for age, disability, and depression.
- The findings suggest a notable impact of MS on intimacy and relationships, particularly for men.
Conclusions:
- Multiple sclerosis significantly intrudes upon intimacy and sexual functioning, with a pronounced effect observed in men.
- These results underscore the importance of considering sex-specific impacts of MS on psychological well-being and relationships.
- Further research and clinical strategies should address the unique challenges faced by men with MS regarding intimacy.
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