A Cross-Sectional Study of Delayed Diagnosis Associated with Gender and Racial Identity in Multiple Sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Clinical Research
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Previous research indicates a poorer prognosis for men and Black individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
• The role of diagnostic and evaluation delays in contributing to these disparities remains under-investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential delays in the evaluation and diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) among men and Black patients.
• To identify demographic factors associated with delayed MS diagnosis and care.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory, survey-based study conducted at a single institution from 2019 to 2021.
• Adult patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) were surveyed about symptom onset, first neurology visit, and MS diagnosis timelines.

Main Results:

• Men experienced significantly longer median delays from symptom onset to MS diagnosis (16.5 months) compared to women (5 months).
• Black patients with MS showed a greater likelihood of a ≥6-month delay between symptom onset and their first neurology visit compared to White patients.
• No significant age differences were observed at symptom onset or first neurology visit between Black and White pwMS, though men tended to be older at diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Significant delays in MS evaluation and diagnosis were observed in men.
• Black pwMS faced a higher probability of delayed neurological evaluation post-symptom onset.
• Addressing these demographic-specific delays is crucial for improving MS outcomes and health equity.