Factors driving delayed time to multiple sclerosis diagnosis: Results from a population-based study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex inflammatory disease where delayed diagnosis limits treatment options.
• Understanding diagnostic delays is crucial for improving patient outcomes in MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors contributing to diagnostic delay in a population-based cohort of multiple sclerosis patients in Biancavilla.
• To analyze the duration and predictors of diagnostic delay in MS.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective population-based study of 70 MS patients diagnosed between 1992 and 2018 in Biancavilla.
• Data collected via the iMed database, including socio-demographic and clinical information.
• Diagnostic delay calculated from initial symptoms to final MS diagnosis.

Main Results:

• The mean diagnostic delay for MS in Biancavilla was 33.8 months (median 19.5 months).
• Multivariate analysis revealed that age 40 years or older, lower educational attainment (1-5 years), and motor symptoms at onset were significantly associated with longer diagnostic delays.
• The study identified 70 MS cases diagnosed between 2005 and 2010.

Conclusions:

• A significant mean delay of approximately 30 months exists between symptom onset and MS diagnosis in the studied population.
• Older age at onset, lower education level, and initial motor symptoms are key predictors of prolonged diagnostic delays in multiple sclerosis.
• These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to reduce diagnostic delays in MS.