Physical disability, cognition, and depression as determinants of quality of life in multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study - Report - MDSpire

Physical disability, cognition, and depression as determinants of quality of life in multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study

  • By

  • Eman M. Khedr

  • Ahmed A. Karim

  • Mohammed Y. Ezzeldin

  • Ahmed Abdelwarith

  • Gellan K. Ahmed

  • Nourelhoda A. Haridy

  • April 30, 2026

  • 0 min

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Influence of Physical Disability, Cognitive Function, and Depression on QoL in MS

Overview

Expand on the independent contributions of cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms to QoL.

Background

Cite specific studies that highlight the importance of routine assessments for cognitive and emotional health.

Data Highlights

MeasurePercentage
Cognitive Impairment47.9%
Depressive Symptoms61.3%
Correlation with QoL (EDSS)r = 0.698
Correlation with QoL (HAM-D)r = 0.438
Correlation with QoL (BVMT-R)r = -0.340

Key Findings

  • Cognitive impairment was found in 47.9% of MS patients.
  • 61.3% of patients exhibited depressive symptoms.
  • EDSS showed the strongest correlation with QoL (r = 0.698).
  • Depression and processing speed were independent predictors of QoL.
  • Physical disability, depression, and cognitive processing speed explained 64% of QoL variance.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should routinely screen for cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms in MS patients, as these factors significantly affect QoL. Early intervention strategies targeting mood and cognitive function may enhance patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of addressing cognitive and emotional health in MS management, alongside physical disability, to improve quality of life for patients.

References

  1. Clinical Rheumatology, Springer, 2006 -- Assessing Quality of Life in Patients with Rheumatic Disorders
  2. American Journal of Epidemiology, 2021 -- Examining the Relationship Between Depressive Symptoms and Cognitive Decline in Early Older Adults
  3. American Journal of Epidemiology, 2021 -- Engagement in Physical, Cognitive, and Social Activities and Its Relationship with Changes in Mobility Disability Among Older Adults
  4. BMC Psychiatry, Springer, 2026 -- An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Bipolar Disorder in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
  5. NINDS Multiple Sclerosis Common Data Elements Recommendations
  6. ScienceDirect, 2025 -- A meta-analysis of the effect of computerized cognitive training on cognitive function in patients with Multiple Sclerosis
  7. Understanding Depression in People Living with Multiple Sclerosis, Springer Nature, 2025 -- A Narrative Review of Recent Literature
  8. NINDS Multiple Sclerosis Common Data Elements Recommendations
  9. A meta-analysis of the effect of computerized cognitive training on cognitive function in patients with Multiple Sclerosis - ScienceDirect
  10. Understanding Depression in People Living with Multiple Sclerosis: A Narrative Review of Recent Literature | Neurology and Therapy | Springer Nature Link

Original Source(s)

Physical disability, cognition, and depression as determinants of quality of life in multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study

  • by Eman M. Khedr, Ahmed A. Karim, Mohammed Y. Ezzeldin, Ahmed Abdelwarith, Gellan K. Ahmed, Nourelhoda A. Haridy

  • April 30, 2026

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