MS Research Portal

Website maintained by the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada

MS Research Portal is a recent initiative from the MS Society of Canada’s Research and Programs & Services departments to highlight Canadian research studies that are seeking participants. These studies must be supported by the MS Society of Canada or other recognized funding agencies that have a formal committee review process. Studies or projects related to pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies, marketing research firms or other for-profit enterprises are not eligible to be posted on the MS Research Portal.

Studies

Study Title:	Bridging the Gaps in 2SLGBTQIA+ Affirming Multiple Sclerosis Care: A needs assessment
Rationale:	To gather input from 2SLGBTQIA+ people living with MS on their needs related to their MS health care.
Study Description:	The goal of the research study is to identify the healthcare-related needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). We hope to improve healthcare for 2SLGBTQIA+ people with MS by taking some preliminary and foundational steps to promote positive changes in our healthcare system. You will be asked to complete a one-time, anonymous online survey comprised of demographic information (ex. age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, education level, ethnicity, substance use, annual household income, community setting and province of residence) and clinical characteristics (ex. MS diagnosis date, disability level, the date of your most recent MS relapse and any comorbid conditions). We will also ask questions related to your experiences living with MS, such as fatigue, mood symptoms (ex., depression, anxiety), sleep quality, contextual burden (i.e., social and family responsibilities), social support and experiences with healthcare professionals. Questions will also address your attitudes regarding your healthcare and your experiences within the healthcare system as a 2SLGBTQIA+ person with MS. The survey will consist of approximately two hundred items and will take approximately two hours to complete. You can pause the survey at any time and return to it later. Your survey responses will be anonymous. Please reach out if you’re interested in participating: CogHealthMS@gmail.com, 613-737-8899 ext. 73109 Details about this study can be found at this YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_xpGfOlSXE
Recruitment Dates:	2026-09-15 to 2028-12-31
Who can participate:	People living with MS who are a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and are 18 years or older, speak English fluently, live in Canada, and have access to an internet-enabled device.
Trial Institution:	Ottawa Hospital Research Institute
Trial Investigator:	Dr. Lisa Walker, Ph.D., C. Psych.
Contact Information:	CogHealthMS@gmail.com, 613-737-8899 ext. 73109
Trial Funding:	Discretionary funds