Multiple Sclerosis: FutureMS-2 - an Observational Cohort and Scottish Precision Medicine Study
FutureMS-2 is a research study in Scotland looking at people who were diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) several years ago. It continues from an earlier project called FutureMS, which collected information shortly after diagnosis. Because MS is a condition that lasts a lifetime, this new study aims to check in with the same people around 5 and 10 years after their diagnosis. The main goal is to better understand how MS progresses over time for individuals and to find ways to predict its course. This will help doctors give more personalised advice and improve the quality of life for people living with MS.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When someone is first diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), they often have many questions about what their future might look like. How will MS affect them? Will it get worse? What can be done to help? The FutureMS project was set up to try and answer these very important questions by closely studying people with MS.
The first FutureMS study collected information from people shortly after they were diagnosed. But since MS is a condition that can change a lot over many years, researchers wanted to keep learning. That's where FutureMS-2 comes in. This study is now following up with the same individuals from the original FutureMS study, checking in with them about 5 and 10 years after their initial diagnosis. By doing this, the researchers hope to get a much clearer picture of how MS affects people over a longer period.
The main aim of FutureMS-2 is to understand why MS affects people so differently. Some people might have mild symptoms for many years, while others can become seriously affected much sooner. Right now, doctors can't always predict how MS will progress for each person. This study hopes to find clues that could help doctors give better, more personalised advice in the future. It's also looking into less obvious symptoms like pain, tiredness (fatigue), and thinking problems, which can have a big impact on daily life but aren't always well understood.
Key takeaways
- Follows up with original FutureMS participants over many years.
- Aims to understand how MS changes over time for individuals.
- Hopes to help predict MS progression and improve future care.
- Focuses on a long-term view of MS, including 'invisible' symptoms.
- It is an observational study, not testing new treatments.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in the FutureMS-2 study, you must have been a participant in the original FutureMS study. This study is specifically designed to follow up with those individuals.
It's important that you are able to understand what the study involves and agree to take part (this is called giving informed consent). Also, you should not have any medical reasons that would prevent you from having an MRI brain scan.
If you were not part of the first FutureMS study, unfortunately, you won't be able to join FutureMS-2. Similarly, if you cannot have an MRI scan, you would also not be able to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Were you a participant in the first FutureMS study?
- Are you able to understand study details and agree to take part?
- Are you able to have an MRI brain scan safely?
What does participation involve?
The information provided does not detail the specific activities, number of visits, or total duration for FutureMS-2. However, based on the study's aim to follow up with participants, it's very likely that taking part would involve attending appointments for assessments. These assessments would probably include follow-up brain MRI scans and check-ups with medical staff. You might also be asked to complete questionnaires or provide other samples, like blood. They will be looking at how things have changed since your last visit. There is no mention of new medications being given as part of this study, as it is an 'observational' study, meaning researchers are observing and collecting information rather than testing new treatments. The study aims to follow you approximately 5 and 10 years after your initial MS diagnosis.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (5)
- Aberdeen Clinical Research Facility Royal Cornhill HospitalVerified postcodeAberdeen, United Kingdom
- Dundee Clinical Research Centre Ninewells HospitalVerified postcodeDundee, United Kingdom
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology ClinicVerified postcodeEdinburgh, United Kingdom
- Glasgow Clinical Research Facility Queen Elizabeth University HospitalVerified postcodeGlasgow, United Kingdom
- Centre for Health Sciences Raigmore HospitalVerified postcodeInverness, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is the main goal of FutureMS-2?
The study aims to understand how MS changes over many years for individuals, helping doctors predict its course and improve care.
Who can take part in FutureMS-2?
Only people who were part of the original FutureMS study and meet other specific requirements can join.
Will I receive new treatment in this study?
No, FutureMS-2 is an 'observational' study, meaning researchers are collecting information, not giving new treatments.
What kind of information will the study collect?
They will likely collect information through medical check-ups, brain scans (MRI), and possibly questionnaires, to see how your MS has progressed.
Can I stop being part of the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can leave the study at any time without it affecting your regular medical care.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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