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Social network characteristics and their relationships with physical activity in children with multiple sclerosis

Paul Yejong Yoo1, Sonika Kumari2, Samantha Stephens1

  • 1Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders
|September 7, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Physical activity in children with multiple sclerosis (MS) is linked to social networks. Larger networks, more support, and educated/active members correlate with increased physical activity in pediatric MS patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric neurology
  • Social epidemiology
  • Health behavior research

Background:

  • Physical activity is crucial for pediatric health outcomes, particularly in children with multiple sclerosis (MS).
  • Social networks may play a significant role in promoting physical activity among these children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between social network characteristics and physical activity levels.
  • To compare these associations in children with MS versus those with monophasic acquired demyelinating syndrome (mono-ADS).

Main Methods:

  • Children diagnosed with MS or mono-ADS completed questionnaires assessing social networks and physical activity.
  • Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were used to compare cohorts and identify correlations.

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in outcomes were observed between children with MS (n=16) and mono-ADS (n=22).
  • In children with MS, higher physical activity correlated with larger social network size (rs=0.681), greater emotional support (rs=0.604), camaraderie (rs=0.585), more network members with post-secondary education (rs=0.680), and members who exercise regularly (rs=0.744).
  • These specific associations were not found in the mono-ADS group.

Conclusions:

  • Social network characteristics, including size, emotional support, camaraderie, and members' educational and exercise habits, are associated with increased physical activity in children with MS.
  • Understanding these social network dynamics can provide insights into health behaviors and inform interventions for pediatric MS.
Abstract

Keywords:
Health behaviorPediatric-onset MSPhysical activitySocial networks

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