Implementation of the first adolescence-to-adulthood transition programme for Multiple Sclerosis in Latin America

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Adolescent Medicine

Background:

• Structured transition programs are beneficial for pediatric chronic conditions.
• No established transition models for pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (MS) exist in Latin America.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the implementation of an adolescence-to-adulthood transition program for pediatric-onset MS (POMS) patients in Argentina.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 33 patients (18-24 years) with MS onset before 18.
• Utilized EQ-5D, MusiQoL, and TRAQ-5 questionnaires.
• Compared outcomes between program participants and non-participants.

Main Results:

• 12 patients (36.4%) joined the transition program.
• Program participation correlated with higher TRAQ-5 and MusiQoL scores (p < 0.0001).
• TRAQ-5 scores improved significantly post-transition (p = 0.0005).

Conclusions:

• Transition programs enhance quality of life, autonomy, and self-management in young adults with MS.
• The study supports the implementation of such programs in the region.