Research in the UAE

Depression and Anxiety Rates in MS Patients in Abu Dhabi

Published on Wed, 30 Jan 2019

Multiple Sclerosis, Anxiety, and Depression in the United Arab Emirates: Does Social Stigma Prevent Treatment?

A retrospective review of 416 MS patients in Abu Dhabi found a depression rate of 10.8%, similar to the general population, with higher rates among females and those with longer disease duration. Interestingly, anxiety rates (4.8%) were significantly lower than the general Abu Dhabi population (18.7%).

Cultural factors, strong family support, and underreporting are potential explanations. Further investigation into social stigma and healthcare barriers is warranted to improve mental health outcomes for people with MS.

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