Biopsychosocial impact of multiple sclerosis in Omani patients: a multicenter comparative study

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that has a deep impact on the neurological function and quality of life of affected individuals. Biological, psychological, and social factors play a key role in disease progression and patient well-being. 

Although the Sultanate of Oman has a relatively low prevalence of MS (15 cases per 100,000 people) compared to other Gulf countries, understanding the psychological, cognitive, and social burdens linked to the disease in the local context is of critical importance, especially given the increasing worldwide awareness of its impact on cognition and mental health. The disease affects vital cognitive functions in a patient’s life, such as attention, memory, and processing speed, which negatively impact their independence and quality of life. 

From this standpoint, Prof. Samir Al-Adawi, from the Department of Behavioural Medicine at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, led a research team on a multi-centre study involving clinically stable MS patients at Khawlah Hospital and Sultan Qaboos University Hospital – two of the leading neurology centres in the Sultanate of Oman. 

The study compared multiple aspects between MS patients and healthy individuals, including intellectual ability, neuropsychological performance, and emotional status such as symptoms of anxiety and depression. It further investigated gender differences in these aspects and analysed the relationship between the cognitive performance and quality of life among patients with MS. 

Compared to healthy individuals, the results demonstrated that MS patients in Oman showed a clear decline in thinking ability, visual and spatial memory, and cognitive processing speed. Minimal gender differences were reported, with the exception being that females outperformed males in visual-spatial abilities. Additionally, the study revealed that quality of life significantly influences cognitive performance, highlighting the close interconnection between biological, psychological, and social factors. 

These results underscore the significant cognitive, psychological, and social burdens on MS patients in Oman, thereby calling for the adoption of comprehensive assessment and integrated care that take into consideration cultural and social characteristics and the health system. Understanding these dynamics will help develop tailored preventive and rehabilitative strategies, improve patients’ quality of life, and contribute to both local and international research and treatment efforts. 

It is worth mentioning that the Sultanate of Oman provides free and comprehensive medical care to its citizens within its integrated health system, which reflects the country’s commitment to the health and well-being of society.