General knowledge and Attitudes towards Multiple Sclerosis in Isfahan in 2021

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory and chronic disease of the central nervous system. Lack of knowledge about the disease and its symptoms may delay early diagnosis and control of the disease. The present study aimed to investigate the general knowledge and attitude towards multiple sclerosis in Isfahan. Methods: This cross-sectional (descriptive-analytical) study was conducted in 2021 in Isfahan. A 22-question researcher-made questionnaire was created and distributed online through social networks. The data were analyzed by independent t-test and one-way ANOVA using SPSS software (v.24). Results: A total of 480 people participated in this study. The mean scores of knowledge and attitude were 4.77±1.86 and 54±6.24, respectively. The results of t-test indicated that there was a significant difference between participants' knowledge and attitude scores in terms of gender and history of multiple sclerosis in close relatives. ANOVA results also showed that there was a significant difference in the mean scores of participants' knowledge and attitude according to their education level and job status. However, there was no difference in the participants' attitudes towards multiple sclerosis and patients with the disease according to their marital status. Conclusion: Based on the present study findings, the participants' knowledge about multiple sclerosis was moderate. Therefore, measures must be taken in order to increase the general knowledge through the mass media and health centers. It can help to early diagnose and control of the disease and correct people's misconceptions about patients with multiple sclerosis.