Indicators of social support in patients with multiple sclerosis in Albania

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that attacks the central nervous system. Objective: The aim of this one year study was to assess the impact of neurological disability in the overall social support domains. Indicators of quality of life are assessed too and social functions and roles, economic constrains, marital status, family relationships and education of patients are included in the study as complementary evidences. Methods: We randomly selected 67 patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Female were 51 (76.1%) and male were 16 (23.9%), mean disease duration was 6 years, (m)education 12 years. In this study social support constrains were measured by MSSS (Modified Social Support Survey) questionnaire (MSQLI scale) which has 4 subscales (I) Tangible Support Subscale (TAN) IIEmotional/Informational Support Subscale (EMI) IIIAffectionate Support Subscale (AFF) IVPositive Social Interaction Subscale (POS). Secondly, MSSS values were divided in 3 categories including: first category MSSS value = 25-45 (21% by total), second category = 45-65 (60%) and third category = 65-85 (19%). Results: In patients with multiple sclerosis we found that mean MSSS subscales values were as follows: TAN 64, EMI47, AFF56, POS48 (range 0-100). Comparison of means showed both EMI and POS had significantly lower MSSS rates; meanwhile Tangible support score indicate greater perceived support. For each of MSSS categories corresponding these levels of disability: First4.4 (3; 8), Second3.1 (2.5; 6) and Third2.6 (2; 5.5) points, assessed by ratings on EDSS (mean). Conclusion: This study show lower MSSS rates and the major constrains was related with the lack of Emotional and Informational support followed by Positive Social Interaction. Harmonised analysis of all MSSS categories showed a direct correlation between reduced social support and overall severity of neurological disability.