AAN 2021 | MS PATHS: clinical outcomes of underrepresented minority patients with MS

Carrie M. Hersh, DO, MSc, FAAN, Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Las Vegas, NV, discusses the results of an investigation into the baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes of minority patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) on interferon beta-1a therapy. Over 1000 patients from the MS-PATHS international network of MS centers treated with peginterferon beta-1a or intramuscular interferon beta-1a were included in the real-world analysis. When compared to White patients, it was demonstrated that non-White patients had greater baseline disease activity, MRI disease burden, and on-treatment annual relapse rates. Similarly, Hispanic patients had greater baseline disease activity and MRI disease burden compared to non-Hispanic patients. These results demonstrate the need for closer observation of MS minority patients to improve treatment outcomes. This interview took place during the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) 2021 Annual Meeting.