Recent findings highlight the intrusiveness of multiple sclerosis (MS) on intimacy and sexual functioning, particularly among men. A total of 922 persons with MS (PwMS) were primarily recruited through the North American Research Committee on MS Registry. The participants completed a 1-time anonymous online survey. Illness intrusiveness was measured using the Illness Intrusiveness Ratings Scale (IIRS) total score and 3 subscales. Independent t-tests determined differences in demographics, disease characteristics, and IIRS outcomes. Hierarchical regressions were then used to further assess whether sex was a significant predictor of illness intrusiveness. Researchers found:

• Men exhibited greater overall, intimacy, and relationship and personal development-related perceived illness intrusiveness.
• However, sex was only a significant predictor of the Intimacy IIRS subscale after accounting for age, disability, and depression.