(P01-086-20) Health Management for Quality of Life of Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate the associations of health behaviors such as diet, sleep and physical activity with quality of life (QoL) for adults diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other major chronic diseases. The study hypothesizes that healthier diet in addition to an increased level of physical activity is associated with improving overall quality of life for those with MS.
Methods: The study includes adults aged 40 and older who are registered members of the Michigan Athletic Club in East Lansing, MI, diagnosed with MS, Parkinson’s Disease or Arthritis (n=30). Data on demographic information, previous health history and health behaviors such as mental health, diet, sleep and physical activity are collected. Multivariate regression models are analyzed in order to describe how current health behaviors are associated with quality of life for those with chronic conditions.
Results: Study results show that physically active MS patients with proper amount and better quality of sleep are likely to have higher overall quality of life. Healthier diet in addition to an increased level of physical activity is also likely to improve overall quality of life for those with MS.
Conclusions: When the importance of diet, exercise and sleep on MS is understood by the medical community, MS patients can utilize this information to improve their QoL through their own habits. Therefore, this study could lead to better management of symptoms by healthcare professionals and patients, and an improved QoL for those diagnosed with MS.
