Biopsychosocial implications of living with multiple sclerosis: a qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis

Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is estimated to affect 2.8 million people worldwide, with increasing prevalence in all world regions (Walton et al ). While there no cure for MS, medication and lifestyle modifications can slow disease progression enhance patients’ quality of life. The biopsychosocial model health recognises important interactions among biological, psychological social factors illness, including those relating illness management, which contribute the experience diagnosed MS. Objective This qualitative, idiographic study aimed explore lived experiences patients United Arab Emirates (UAE) Methods Semistructured interviews were conducted a purposive sample eight MS ranging age from 25 56 years. All participants residing UAE at time data collection. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used analyse data. Results Three superordinate themes identified candid accounts their lives highlighting issues acceptance gratitude, adaptive coping. These broadly illustrate aspects experiences. Conclusion emphasised importance adopting treat manage Additionally, it highlights need routine assessment early, multidimensional approach multidisciplinary team efforts improve