MOBILITY LOSS LEADS TO REDUCED PRODUCTIVITY AND EARNINGS

• Thursday, 29 July 2010

New research investigating how mobility impairment affects the lives of those with multiple sclerosis (MS) has found a substantial impact on workplace productivity and earnings. Almost three quarters (72%) of those surveyed said their mobility problems had a significant impact on their working lives and nearly two thirds (64%) reported losing earnings due to MS-related mobility issues.

The survey, commissioned by Biogen Idec, examined the issue of mobility impairment in more than 430 people living with MS from six countries. This research supports other previously conducted studies which have consistently found that mobility issues are a top concern for MS patients.

Of those who reported an impact on their working life, more than one third (39%) stated that mobility problems forced them to take time off of work – with some taking up to 40 days from work in the last six months. However, it was encouraging that 83% of respondents felt their employer was supportive.

“The results of this survey reinforce our understanding that the loss of mobility is a leading concern for those diagnosed with multiple sclerosis,” said Professor Hans-Peter Hartung, Chairman of the Department of Neurology at Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany.

“We know that MS is a debilitating disease and these results implicate mobility loss as a primary driver in reduced productivity in the workplace. As physicians, we must continue to explore methods and treatments to better manage the physical and psychological impacts from mobility impairment.”

The survey examined the life experiences of MS patients in Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Biogen Idec continues to analyze the results and will continue to share data with the broader MS community.

About Biogen Idec

Biogen Idec creates new standards of care in therapeutic areas with high unmet medical needs. Founded in 1978, Biogen Idec is a global leader in the discovery, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of innovative therapies. Patients worldwide benefit from Biogen Idec's significant products that address diseases such as lymphoma, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. For product labeling, press releases and additional information about the company, please visit www.biogenidec.com.

Notes to editor:

Methodology

• Research was conducted by an independent market research company.

• Research was carried out between 4 June 2010 and 29 June 2010 utilizing a rigorous and robust questionnaire development process. The questionnaire was validated to ensure compliance with ICC/ESOMAR Code on Market and Social Research (European research guidelines) and the Market Research Society Code of Conduct. Please visit www.esomar.org and www.mrs.org.uk for more information

• Respondents were recruited via a mix of patient group liaisons and online recruitment. International patient groups were utilized to recruit MS patients. A network of contacts in each country was also approached. The people invited to take part were pre-screened to ensure that they had been diagnosed with MS and fit the criteria for the research.

• The survey was anonymous and completed online.

• The survey sampled 436 people with MS from Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. They were selected at random to help ensure a result representative of the overall MS patient population.


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Media contact:

Vicky Squires
Tonic Life Communications
+44 (0)20 7798 9900

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