Social aspects of multiple sclerosis for Iranian individuals

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the social aspects of multiple sclerosis ( MS) in the Iranian individuals. Methods: A qualitative case study approach was used for this study, which is a part of a larger qualitative study about health care delivery system of MS. Participants were selected on the basis of purposive sampling method. Semi-structured interviews regarding the social aspects of MS were conducted with 18 MS patients, 6 family members and 7 health care providers. Besides interviews with the participants, documents related to the aim of the study, including weblogs, MS magazines, special websites of individuals with MS and news agencies. Data analysis was performed using the qualitative content analysis technique. Results: Data obtained has been categorised into five main categories, including confronting stigma symbols, the outcome of stigma, walling-in due to stigma, disturbance in normal life and concern about job. Conclusion: There are multiple social effects of MS on the afflicted individuals, which affect various dimensions of their life. Policy makers and health care providers must also consider these effects of MS on other dimensions of the individuals' life.