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Robers MV, Amezcua L. Current opinion: Racial and ethnic health disparities in multiple sclerosis: considering the social determinants of health. Curr Opin Neurol 2024; 37:245-251. [PMID: 38506756 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We discuss racial and ethnic disparities in multiple sclerosis (MS), outcomes, and social determinants of health (SDoH). We also provide essential considerations needed to bridge the gap in inequalities, including broader representation of racial and ethnic people in clinical trials and research in general and the inclusion of better measures of living conditions. RECENT FINDINGS The incidence and prevalence of MS have become more diverse in the USA. There is increased recognition that racial and ethnic health disparities and inequities exist due to adverse social conditions. Clinical trials have failed to be inclusive and diverse. Training in health disparity is an essential priority of funding sources, and designing clinical trials that consider the barriers these populations face can close significant gaps. SUMMARY The incidence, prevalence, and awareness of MS have seen an incline in diverse racial and ethnic populations. Health disparities exist in MS with Black, Hispanic, and indigenous populations appearing to have worse outcomes. SDoH play a significant role in causing these health disparities. Accessibility to clinical trials and treatment are barriers these populations face. Strategic and earnest interventions considering SDoH are critically needed to develop solutions that collectively improve health and MS care for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael V Robers
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
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Akinsanya J, Smith JB, Langer-Gould A. Traumatic brain injury, race, ethnicity and cognition in newly diagnosed persons with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 86:105577. [PMID: 38579569 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
We sought to determine whether a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) could explain the lower symbol digit modalities test (SDMT) scores observed among newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis (MS) and control participants identifying as Black or Hispanic versus white in the MS Sunshine Study (n = 1172). 330 (29.2 %) participants reported a history of ≥1 TBI. Accounting for TBI did not explain the significant independent associations between having MS, being Black or Hispanic and lower SDMT. The pervasive effects of systemic racism in the United States remain the best explanation for the lower SDMT scores observed in Black and Hispanic participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemima Akinsanya
- Department of Neurology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jessica B Smith
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Annette Langer-Gould
- Department of Neurology, Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Clinical Science, Kaiser Permanente School of Medicine, Pasadena CA, USA.
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Huynh TLT, Williams MJ, Motl RW. Walking and physical performance in black and white adults with multiple sclerosis controlling for social determinants of health. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 83:105439. [PMID: 38219300 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence for reduced walking and physical performance in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) compared with healthy controls (HCs). There is further evidence suggesting increased overall mobility disability in Black persons with MS compared with White counterparts, yet little is known about the interplay of social determinants of health (SDOH) when considering differences in walking and physical performance. PURPOSE This cross-sectional, comparative study examined differences in walking and physical performance in Black and White persons with MS and HCs (MS Status), statistically controlling for SDOH. METHODS The study sample consisted of 208 persons with MS (141 White participants and 67 Black participants) and 95 HCs (59 White participants and 36 Black participants). Walking and physical function were measured using timed 25-foot walk (T25FW), six-minute walk (6MW), timed-up-and-go (TUG), and short physical performance battery (SPPB). We examined the differences in the walking and physical functions as a function of MS Status (MS vs. HCs) and Race (Black vs. White) using Multivariate Analysis of Covariance, controlling for age, sex, marital status and SDOH (i.e., education, employment, income). RESULTS There were no significant interactions between MS Status and Race on the outcomes, and the main effects of MS Status and Race remained statistically significant, controlling for SDOH and covariates. The main effects indicated significant lower T25FW (F = 34.6, p < .001, Ƞp2 = 0.11), 6MW (F = 58.5, p < .001, Ƞp2 = 0.18), TUG (F = 22.1, p < .001, Ƞp2 = 0.08), and SPPB (F = 25.2, p < .001, Ƞp2 = 0.09) performance for MS than HCs, and lower T25FW (F = 15.5, p < .001, Ƞp2 = 0.05), 6MW (F = 11.6, p < .001, Ƞp2 = 0.04), and TUG (F = 4.1, p < .05, Ƞp2 = 0.02) performance in Black than White samples. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that MS Status and Race independently influence walking and physical performance even after accounting for SDOH, and Black persons with MS have compromised walking and physical performance, perhaps necessitating focal rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trinh L T Huynh
- Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, School of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago, 1919 W Taylor Street, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | | | - Robert W Motl
- Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, School of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago, 1919 W Taylor Street, Chicago, IL, USA
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Williams MJ, Orlando C, Akisanya J, Amezcua L. Multiple Sclerosis in Black and Hispanic Populations: Serving the Underserved. Neurol Clin 2024; 42:295-317. [PMID: 37980120 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis has historically been characterized as a disease that affects young women of European ancestry, but recent studies indicate that the incidence and prevalence of the disease is much higher in Black and Hispanic populations than previously recognized. There is evidence that there is a more severe disease course in these populations. , but the intersection of genetic underpinnings and social determinants of health (SDOH) is poorly understood due to the lack of diversity in clinical research. Improving health disparities will involve multiple stakeholders in efforts to improve SDOH and raise awareness about research involvement and the importance of developing personalized health care plans to combat this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitzi J Williams
- Joi Life Wellness Multiple Sclerosis Center, 767 Concord Road, SE, Smyrna, GA 30082, USA.
| | - Christopher Orlando
- Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, 1520 San Pablo Street, Suite 3000, Los Angeles, CA, USA. https://twitter.com/OrlandoMDMPH
| | - Jemima Akisanya
- Georgetown Department of Neurology, 10401 Hospital Drive, Suite 102, Clinton, MD 20735, USA. https://twitter.com/MimasMyelin
| | - Lilyana Amezcua
- Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, 1520 San Pablo Street, Suite 3000, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Mateen FJ, Trápaga Hacker C. Perceptions of people with multiple sclerosis on social determinants of health: Mixed methods. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 80:105089. [PMID: 37897932 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.105089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the social determinants of health (SDOH) in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) with SDOH, elucidating the SDOH variables of highest salience in this geographical region. METHODS Focus groups and a structured survey of Massachusetts residents with SDOH and a diagnosis of MS were conducted by a neurologist and staff, December 2022-July 2023, via Zoom™. Twenty-one consecutively-recruited, convenience-sampled adults participated in four groups. A thematic inductive approach was taken. RESULTS Participants (average age 45 years old; average time since MS diagnosis 13.7 years; 14 cisgender female, 1 transgender female, 5 cisgender male, 1 non-binary; 33 % white, 57 % black, 5 % Asian, 5 % other; 18 % Hispanic/Latinx; modal response of 5 SDOH) identified the following key SDOH: (1) race and ethnicity, related to (a) diagnostic delays in MS, (b) limited familiarity with MS and its etiology, and (c) value of ongoing MS care; (2) gender, focused on limited published data in African American men and transgender people; (3) social and community contexts; and (4) financial burdens, related to (a) out-of-pocket costs of MS disease modifying therapies, (b) lost work time, and (c) transportation. Lower frequency SDOH variables were access to public toilets, lost job promotions, environmental exposures, and concern about discrimination. Unmet needs emphasized (1) public understanding of MS; (2) financial support for DMT costs, closer access to infusion centers, and culturally competent care; (3) support for research participation; (4) reliable transportation; and (5) patient awareness of extant services and support programs. CONCLUSIONS This in-depth assessment of people with MS who possess multiple SDOH identified the most salient and commonly experienced SDOH, common themes related to the SDOH in MS, unmet needs, and future opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farrah J Mateen
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States; Harvard Medical School, United States.
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Perumal J, Balabanov R, Balcer L, Galetta S, Sun Z, Li H, Rutledge D, Avila RL, Fox RJ. Long-Term Effectiveness and Safety of Natalizumab in African American and Hispanic/Latino Patients with Early Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: STRIVE Data Analysis. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:833-848. [PMID: 36966440 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00461-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In STRIVE, natalizumab treatment demonstrated effectiveness in clinical, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in patients with early relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). This post hoc analysis examined the effectiveness and safety of natalizumab in patients who self-identified as either Black/African American (AA) or Hispanic/Latino. METHODS Clinical, MRI, and PROs were assessed for the Black/AA subgroup (n = 40) and compared with the non-Hispanic White subgroup (n = 158). As a result of the very small sample size, outcomes for the Hispanic/Latino subgroup (n = 18) were assessed separately, including a sensitivity analysis with Hispanic/Latino patients who completed the 4-year study on natalizumab. RESULTS Clinical, MRI, and PROs were comparable between the Black/AA and non-Hispanic White subgroups except for MRI outcomes at year 1. A higher proportion of non-Hispanic White than Black/AA patients achieved MRI no evidence of disease activity (NEDA; 75.4% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.0121) and no new or newly enlarging T2 lesions (77.6% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.0031) at year 1; these differences were not observed in years 2-4 of the study. For the Hispanic/Latino subgroup in the intent-to-treat population, 46.2% and 55.6% achieved NEDA at years 1 and 2; 66.7% and 90.0% achieved clinical NEDA at years 3 and 4. Annualized relapse rate was reduced by 93.0% at year 1 versus the year before natalizumab initiation; this reduction was maintained throughout the study. Over 4 years, 37.5-50.0% of patients had a clinically meaningful improvement in their Symbol Digit Modalities Test score, and 81.8-100.0% and 90.9-100.0% had stable/improved Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale-29 physical and psychological scores, respectively. Similar results were observed in the sensitivity analysis with Hispanic/Latino subgroup of the 4-year natalizumab completers. CONCLUSION These results highlight the effectiveness and safety of natalizumab in patients with early RRMS who self-identified as Black/AA or Hispanic/Latino. CLINICALTRIALS GOV: NCT01485003.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Perumal
- Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
| | | | - Laura Balcer
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Steven Galetta
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Robert J Fox
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Fakolade A, Akbar N, Mehelay S, Phadke S, Tang M, Alqahtani A, Pullattayil AK, Busse M. Mapping two decades of multiple sclerosis rehabilitation trials: A systematic scoping review and call to action to advance the study of race and ethnicity in rehabilitation research. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 72:104606. [PMID: 36917889 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS), is prevalent across many racial and ethnic groups, and disproportionately impacts racially minoritized populations. Rehabilitation interventions are an important component of comprehensive MS care. Yet, we do not know the extent to which MS rehabilitation trials consider race and ethnicity in defining eligibility criteria, planning recruitment strategies, selecting outcome measures, supporting intervention delivery, and designing approaches to promote adherence and retention. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of five databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, EMBASE, and Web of Science) to locate randomized controlled rehabilitation trials published from January 2002 to March 2022. We extracted data from relevant studies, assessed their methodological quality, and narratively summarized results. Reporting of this review is in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). RESULTS Fifty-six studies of neurorehabilitation (n = 3), cognitive rehabilitation (n = 6), exercise training (n = 9) and self-management (n = 38) interventions were included in this review. The studies were predominantly from North America (n = 44; 73%) or Europe (n = 12; 20%) and included 4280 participants. Most participants (n = 3669; 86%) were Caucasians. Less than 10% of participants were Black (n = 282), Latinx/Hispanic (n = 60), Asian (n = 46), Indigenous (n = 7), or Arab (n = 2). Few studies discussed how race and/or ethnicity were considered in trial planning or execution. CONCLUSIONS Without consistent and systematic attention to race and ethnicity, both in terms of trial design and reporting, it is impossible to know how MS rehabilitation interventions will translate into real-world applications. This call to action - to the MS rehabilitation research community to ensure trial and intervention processes that accommodate the needs of diverse racial and ethnic groups - is an important first step in addressing inequities in rehabilitation care for persons with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afolasade Fakolade
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Louise D. Acton Building, 31 George Street, Kingston K7L 3N6, Canada.
| | - Nadine Akbar
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Louise D. Acton Building, 31 George Street, Kingston K7L 3N6, Canada; Research Department, Humber River Hospital, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sumaya Mehelay
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Siona Phadke
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada; Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Matthew Tang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Ashwaq Alqahtani
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Louise D. Acton Building, 31 George Street, Kingston K7L 3N6, Canada; Department of Physical Therapy, College of Medical Rehabilitation, Qassim University, Buraydah 52645, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Monica Busse
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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