Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Registry

The Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Registry is a national, patient-centered research project with the aim to document the epidemiology of multiple sclerosis (MS), as well as the quality of life of persons living with MS in Switzerland. The Swiss MS Registry pursues a "Citizen Science" approach, that is, persons with MS are not just study participants but also act as MS experts and are active contributors to the interdisciplinary Swiss MS Registry research network. Initiated and funded by the Swiss MS Society, the Swiss MS Registry represents a collaborative effort by numerous MS caregivers, researchers and persons with MS. It is hosted by the Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute at the University of Zurich.

How many MS-affected persons are living in Switzerland and how are they coping with MS in their daily lives? What is the current situation with regard to access to and use of drug and non-drug treatments for MS? These and other questions are addressed by means of semi-annual surveys. Further research activities concern the quality of life of persons with MS, mobility, personal resources and support by friends and family, work situation, mental health, clinical progression of MS, as well as alternative therapies.

Owing to a flexible study design, participants can decide between different levels of commitment (from one-time surveys to repeated, semiannual surveys and medical records review). Furthermore, study participants receive summaries of their data as charts and tables. Data collection primarily occurs via a newly designed online platform, but paper-and-pencil questionnaires are also available. As an additional incentive, the online platform includes a diary with basic capabilities for analyses and printing.