# Evaluation of Multiple Sclerosis Care and Its Impact on Brain Health: A United Arab Emirates Center Experience

## TL;DR

This study evaluates multiple sclerosis care in the UAE, finding gaps in addressing non-visible symptoms and suggesting a multidisciplinary approach to improve patient outcomes.

## Contribution

The paper highlights specific care gaps in the UAE context and advocates for policy changes to enhance comprehensive MS care.

## Key findings

- Significant gaps were found in consultations regarding employment challenges, sexual dysfunction screening, and cognitive assessments.
- No significant association was found between Expanded Disability Status Scale scores and blood pressure or glycemic status.
- A positive correlation was found between Expanded Disability Status Scale scores and age.

## Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, complex neurological disease, often presenting with both visible and non-visible symptoms that significantly affect daily functioning. A holistic approach to multiple sclerosis care is essential for patient well-being, particularly in the unique sociocultural context of the United Arab Emirates, where factors such as insurance coverage and specialist availability can present additional challenges.

Methodology: A retrospective, service-improvement study of 81 individuals with multiple sclerosis was conducted at a specialized center in the United Arab Emirates to evaluate demographics, disease management practices, and support services. Data were extracted from electronic medical records covering the period from January 1, 2022, to January 1, 2024, and assessed against established quality measures, including crucial screening procedures recommended by the American Academy of Neurology’s Quality Measurement Set.

Results: Significant gaps were identified in essential multiple sclerosis care, particularly in consultations about employment challenges, sexual dysfunction screening, and cognitive function assessment. Of the 81 participants, 43 (53.09%) were women, and 38 (46.91%) were men, with a mean age of 40.09 years. Analysis of the Expanded Disability Status Scale scores showed no significant association with blood pressure (P=0.1067) or glycemic status (P=0.3891), but a positive correlation with age (P=0.0099).

Conclusion: An integrated, multidisciplinary model of multiple sclerosis care is crucial, emphasizing regular assessments of cognitive function, fatigue, sexual health, and work-related issues to optimize patient outcomes and enhance overall brain health in the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, systematic policy interventions that mandate comprehensive screening protocols could further strengthen care delivery. Such measures may foster earlier detection of hidden disabilities and better coordination among diverse healthcare professionals, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals with multiple sclerosis.