Childhood Adversity Research Effort in Multiple Sclerosis (CARE.in.MS)

Project Summary Nationwide, a widening gap in neurologic health outcomes exists, with minority populations suffering a disproportionate burden of neurologic disease and in some cases, even seven times greater mortality than non-minority populations. Here we focus on the neurologic disorder, multiple sclerosis, the most common disabling central nervous system (CNS) disorder of young adulthood. We have designed a collaborative research project to work alongside individuals with MS who possess one or more lived experiences within the most vulnerable minority populations, including but not limited to Black, Hispanic, and poverty-impacted communities. We posit that childhood adversity experienced at the individual, family, and neighborhood levels significantly contributes to worse health, particularly among high risk group. Here, we have collaborated with communities of interest (persons with MS who come from specific high risk minority groups), community engagement partners, and a highly multidisciplinary diverse research team. Together, we are aligned to collaboratively develop and execute a comprehensive, culturally-informed multicenter study of childhood adversity and MS health outcomes involving predominantly individuals who self-identify as members of minority groups with MS. This community-engaged proposal advances clinical readiness by creating culturally- sensitive research instruments, meticulously analyzing the relationship between childhood adversity and MS outcomes, and understanding the environmental and social factors influencing quality of life in high-risk minority and poverty impacted people with MS. The insights gained will guide the development of tailored interventions to narrow the health equity gap, ensuring that all individuals with MS have equal opportunities for optimal health outcomes and quality of life. Identified modifiable targets will be rapidly scaled into a clinical trial across the U.S. Network of MS Centers.