How U.S. Latinos View Multiple Sclerosis

Key Findings

- Overall, U.S. Latinos have moderate levels of awareness and knowledge about multiple sclerosis (MS).

- While U.S. Latinos are aware of MS, they are not as knowledgeable about symptoms and risk factors as non-Hispanic whites.

- U.S. Latinos are less likely to know someone with MS.

- U.S. Latinos are more likely to rely on family, friends, Spanish language media, and non-governmental organizations for information about MS

- U.S. Latinos are more likely to believe that MS is a curable disease.

- U.S. Latinos are less likely to participate in clinical trials for MS.

Implications

The findings of this survey have implications for public health campaigns and educational interventions to increase awareness and knowledge about MS among U.S. Latinos.

- Public health campaigns should focus on increasing U.S. Latinos' knowledge about MS symptoms and risk factors, as well as the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

- Educational interventions should be tailored to the needs of U.S. Latinos, and should use culturally appropriate materials and channels of communication.

- Partnerships with trusted sources of information, such as family, friends, Spanish-language media, and non-governmental organizations, should be developed to disseminate information about MS to U.S. Latinos.