Population Perspective: Multiple Sclerosis

Racial & Ethnic Disparities in Multiple Sclerosis

A look at the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) among BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Americans and the importance of culturally competent care.

POWER IN NUMBERS

The cross cultural impact of multiple sclerosis

Of patients impacted by multiple sclerosis, 4.5% are non-Hispanic Other.

Of patients impacted by multiple sclerosis, 77.6% are non-Hispanic whites.

Of patients impacted by multiple sclerosis, 10% are non-Hispanic Blacks.

Of patients impacted by multiple sclerosis, 7.2% are Hispanic.

COMMON

CHARACTERISTICS

Genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors can put certain BIPOC Americans at a greater risk for multiple sclerosis.

Rising Incidence

Black individuals have had the highest incidence rates of multiple sclerosis among all racial and ethnic groups over the past 30 years.

Hispanic Americans

born in the US have higher incidence rates and an earlier age at diagnosis of MS than those that immigrated to the US.

BIPOC Americans

are more likely to live in communities with more limited access to neurologists, which can delay or prevent accurate diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

MYTHS &

MISINFORMATION

Dispelling misinformation may help individuals understand and reduce their risk of multiple sclerosis.

Myth: If a family member has multiple sclerosis, I will develop it too.

Fact: The risk for an individual with a close relative (parent, sibling, or child) with multiple sclerosis is only slightly higher than for the general population.

SOCIAL

STIGMAS

Stigma refers to unfair attitudes, judgments, and discrimination. Stigma is often caused by misinformation, and it can vary between different communities. Better knowledge and awareness are essential to reducing stigma.

Experiencing stigma can be harmful to a person’s mental health and may make it more difficult for a person with multiple sclerosis to take care of their health.

A person who feels stigmatized may be less likely to ask for help or to attend social events, which can negatively impact mental and physical health.

CULTURALLY

COMPETENT CARE

In healthcare settings, culturally relevant knowledge, awareness, and education are essential to helping people successfully manage multiple sclerosis.

The role of knowledge.

“Cultural humility” is a practice of life-long self-exploration of personal bias and learning about the diverse beliefs, values, life experiences, and communication styles that exist within different communities.

The role of awareness.

Working with healthcare providers who understand and acknowledge the challenges that BIPOC Americans face when managing multiple sclerosis can lead to better management for individuals and communities.

The role of education.

Patient education and self-management strategies are essential to successfully managing multiple sclerosis. Education should be culturally relevant and delivered by individuals that have relatable backgrounds and experiences.

PROACTIVE PLANNING

Whenever possible, find healthcare professionals who share relatable backgrounds and experiences or those committed to understanding the unique perspectives of individuals within America's BIPOC communities.

WORDS OF

WISDOM

Multiple sclerosis is challenging. Adopting the right mindset and the right strategies can help you meet the challenges you’ll face.

Getting Started Living with multiple sclerosis means living with uncertainty. There will be many things you will not be able to control, but there will also be many things that you can control. Make time to learn about the condition and your treatment options. Write down questions and topics to bring to your appointment. Stay connected to the important people in your life, and the things that matter most to you.

Finding Support You do not have to face multiple sclerosis alone. Surround yourself with a network of friends, family, and healthcare professionals who understand your journey. Support groups for people with multiple sclerosis can be a helpful place to discuss treatment options, share coping strategies, and receive encouragement and support.