People with multiple sclerosis (MS) with a rapid decline in walking abilities were more likely to be older when first examined, female, or Black, according to a large data study in the U.S.
Other factors associated with worsening walking impairment over time included living with MS longer, having progressive disease, more severe depressive symptoms, relying on public health insurance, and living in a location with a lower socioeconomic status.
These findings highlight that socially disadvantaged and economically marginalized MS patients in the U.S. are the most vulnerable to declines in walking abilities, the researchers said.
