Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences
Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences

Social Barriers Faced by Women with Multiple Sclerosis in Tehran: A Qualitative Content Analysis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Parvaneh Kheftan 1
Maliheh Arshi 2
Mahmoud Roghanchi 3
Amir Moghanibashi-Mansourieh 4
Shiva Dalirian 2

1 Vice-President of Student and Cultural Affairs, Counseling and lifestyle center, Kermanshah University of Technology, Kermanshah, Iran

2 Department of Social Work, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran

3 Vice President of Research and Technology, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

4 Department of Social Work, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran

10.34172/jqr.1336
Abstract
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a significant neurological disease primarily affecting young adults. The prevalence of this disease in women is about two to three times higher than in men. This study aimed to explore the challenges faced by women with MS using qualitative content analysis (QCA).
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using a content analysis approach. A total of 23 patients with MS who visited the Iran MS Society were selected to participate in the study using a purposive sampling method until data saturation was reached. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using QCA.
Results: The social barriers identified as the main issues faced by patients with MS comprised nine subcategories including insufficient financial support, lack of job opportunities, employers’ inadequate information about the specific conditions of MS patients, loss of educational opportunities, decreased social cohesion and responsibility, lack of environmental adaptation appropriate for MS patients, social stigma, lack of public awareness about MS, and deficiencies in the public transport system.
Conclusion: It is essential to enhance social support for patients with MS by raising public awareness, improving public transportation systems, and developing empathy among family members and the community.

Highlights

Maliheh Arshi (PubMed) (Google Scholar)

Keywords

Multiple sclerosis
Qualitative research
Social support
Stigma
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Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences
Volume 14
Pages 1-6

  • Receive Date 16 September 2023
  • Revise Date 10 August 2024
  • Accept Date 20 August 2024

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