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:	Examining intersections of biographies & biologies: diversity & outcomes of people with multiple sclerosis in Canada (iBio2Div-MS)
Rationale:	Each person’s experience with multiple sclerosis (MS) is different. These differences are likely due to a mix of factors. Examples of some of these factors are a person’s sex, gender, age, ethnicity, and if they live in a city or not. Together, these factors contribute to a person’s diversity. Past MS research has not included people who are diverse. Yet some diversity factors can affect the health of a person with MS. Currently, researchers are unsure which diversity factors affect health the most. This in turn limits access to the right types of support and care.
Study Description:	The purpose of this study is to find out how genes, diversity traits, and life experiences affect the health of people with MS compared to people without MS. The study’s long-term goal is to improve health in people with MS who have not been included in past research. If you agree to participate, you will be asked to complete 4 phone interviews that are 60-90 minutes long, each one year apart. The interview will ask questions about your diversity traits and your physical, emotional, and social health and function. The interviewer will also assess your physical and mental function. You will also give a saliva sample by mail. You will be compensated for your time. Study Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STPYyPe9G0Y If you are interested in participating in the study, please contact msepidemiology@nshealth.ca
Starting Date:	2026-01-06
Ending Date:	2026-12-31
Who can participate:	You can participate if you have MS, are aged 18 years or older, are able to do phone interviews in English, live in Canada AND identify as a member of any group that has been under-represented in research: A man A racialized group (previously referred to as a visible minority) Two spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex or another term related to gender or sexual diversity (2SLGBTQI+) Immigrated to Canada within the last ten (10) years Live in a rural community of less than 10,000 people Live with a disability that makes it hard to do the things you want and need to do everyday, at home and in your community
Trial Institution:	Nova Scotia Health
Trial Investigator:	Ruth Ann Marrie, MD, PhD
Contact Information:	msepidemiology@nshealth.ca
Trial Funding:	CIHR