The study of M.S patient's life style referred to MS association in Tehran city in 2008

Multiple sclerosis is unpredictable and is amongst the important diseases which cause changes in life style and gradually leads to inability. There is a close relation between health and life style, so that one can prevent from rate of disease attacks, by his/her life style modification. Therefore recognition life style for educational planning in MS patients is very important. The aim of this study was to determine life style of MS patients referred to MS association in Tehran city in 2008. This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried on 200 men and women suffering from MS. Data gathering tool was a questionnaire and method was interview. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi- Square and Fisher,s exact test) and SPSS software. 38.5% of the samples in self care dimension were desirable. Findings also indicated that nutrition in the samples (78%) was relatively desirable. Other results showed that non smoking (83%) was desirable and sleep pattern and rest (45%), and stress coping (50.5%) was undesirable. Findings showed there was significant relation between educational level, supportive resources, number of relapse and self care dimension in life style. Also, relation between marriage status, family income and nutrition dimension in life style was significant too. According to the results of this study, life style in some dimensions was undesirable. These non healthy behaviors can effect on severity and relapse of disease and ultimately have bad influence on the quality of life in these patients. Therefore, change and modification and improvement in life style in these patients seem to be essential that we can access to it with comprehensive educational programs.