Society-Funded Researchers Assess Cognitive Changes Remotely, and Successfully
July 20, 2020
A team partly funded by the National MS Society reports that a web-based assessment of cognitive function was able to detect impairments similarly to in-person testing. Applying this method may help to increase cognitive screening, and alert physicians to problems before clinic visits. Such possibilities take on new importance with telehealth increasing due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- More than half of all people with MS will develop problems with cognition. Certain functions are more likely to be affected than others, including information processing and memory. Despite this, cognitive function is not routinely evaluated or optimally treated. It is one of the major unmet needs in MS care.
- This team has developed a technician-guided, web-based tool to measure memory and processing speed remotely. In this study of 100 people with MS, one group completed in-person tests followed by the remote assessment, while the other completed remote testing, followed by in-person assessment.
- Take a closer look at screening for cognitive function problems in MS. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are concerned about cognitive dysfunction.
“A validation study for remote testing of cognitive function in multiple sclerosis” by Lisa Barcellos, PhD, MPH, and colleagues at University of California Berkeley was published online July 14 in the
MS Journal.
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.
The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.