This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and predictors of multiple sclerosis (MS) related fatigue, and the impact of this on quality of life.

Fatigue is a widely experienced, incapacitating symptom of MS, which hinders daily functioning and has deleterious effects on quality of life. Previous research focusing on the predictors of fatigue has been inconclusive and understanding fatigue in MS is recognised as a research priority by the James Lind Alliance. Quantifying the prevalence, predictors and impact of fatigue is thus a crucial first step in alleviating its detrimental effects and improving the quality of life for patients with MS (pwMS). This is currently one of the biggest MS fatigue studies.

Data from 775 pwMS (mean age= 54.71 years, SD= 10.90; 73.5% women; mean duration of MS diagnosis =13.21 years, SD 9.75) was obtained from the UK MS Register. Fatigue was measured using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Self-report questionnaires were completed, covering numerous possible predictors of MS related fatigue, including; age, gender, nicotine use, MS duration, MS type, use of disease modifying drugs, disability, anxiety, depression, comorbidities, MS impacts, and quality of life. Descriptive statistics were obtained and logistical and multiple regressions were used to explore predictors of MS related fatigue.

55.1% of pwMS reported clinical fatigue. Nicotine use, MS duration, disability, FSS, anxiety and depression were all associated with fatigue severity. The presence of depression, the duration of MS diagnosis, secondary progressive MS diagnoses, and disability scores were found to predict fatigue. Results also revealed that MS-related fatigue has a negative impact on psychological and physical wellbeing and reduces overall quality of life.

Fatigue in MS is a serious problem. To improve quality of life and reduce its impact, fatigue should be screened for in all pwMS. If present, clinicians should further assess for depression and disability.