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Only 20% of the population distinguishes between multiple sclerosis and ALS
Merck has presented a study on Spanish society’s perception and knowledge of multiple sclerosis, with technical support from GAD3. The aim of this research is to analyse the level of information, beliefs and impact that the population attributes to this disease. The results reveal a significant gap between the general recognition of multiple sclerosis as a chronic disease and the lack of real understanding of its causes, symptoms and consequences.
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Do you consider yourself to be informed about multiple sclerosis?
Although a large majority acknowledge having heard of multiple sclerosis, the level of actual knowledge remains low: more than half of those surveyed, specifically 55%, say they are poorly informed, and 7% say they are not at all informed about the disease.
When asked about the channels through which they have obtained information, the most frequently mentioned are traditional media (59%), followed by family or friends (32%) and the Internet (35%).
Even so, 59% of those surveyed consider the impact of MS on the lives of those who suffer from it to be ‘very serious’, and another 32% describe it as ‘serious’.
In terms of its incidence, 48% believe that MS affects men and women equally, and 44% say that it is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40.
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Myths and realities: MS is not a rare disease.
Although 80% of respondents correctly identify multiple sclerosis as a chronic disease, widespread misconceptions persist. For example, 45% consider it a rare disease, when it is not.
In addition, the study delved into the aspects of daily life that the population perceives as most affected by multiple sclerosis. Among the areas with the greatest impact are mobility (75%), personal independence or autonomy (70%), self-esteem and emotional health (65%), and work or professional life (63%).
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Are we really informed about this disease?
We asked respondents about the information they receive on aspects of MS, with some examples of awareness campaigns, and found that 6 out of 10 people do not remember seeing any prevention or awareness campaigns on multiple sclerosis.
As for the preferred channels for receiving information about multiple sclerosis, 33% of respondents opted for awareness campaigns, followed by 29% who preferred to get information from their general practitioner and 14% who cited social media as their main source.
Regarding the type of content they would like to receive, 26% are interested in learning more about symptoms and the diagnostic process, 21% want information about treatment options and advances in research, and 16% particularly value advice aimed at improving the quality of life of people with MS.
Access more information about the study on the website of Merck
Technical specifications
Universe: General population over 18 years of age.
Scope: National
Information collection procedure: Computer-assisted web interview (CAWI)
Sample size: 2,500 interviews: 500 interviews per priority autonomous community and 1,000 in the rest of Spain
Questionnaire: 27 closed questions prepared by GAD3 and validated by MERCK.
Sampling error: ±4.5% (n=500); 2.0% (n=2,500) for a confidence level of 95.5% (two sigmas).
Interview duration: approximately 4 minutes.
Fieldwork dates: March 2025.
Institute: Gabinete de Análisis Demoscópico, S.L. (GAD3). C/ Alcalá 75 – 4º izquierda, 28009 – Madrid
