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Pathogenesis – Immunology Poster Presentation

P0986 - Online Medical Education Improves Knowledge of Age-Related Immune System Changes in Patients with MS Among Neurologists (ID 313)

Speakers
Presentation Number
P0986
Presentation Topic
Pathogenesis – Immunology

Abstract

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting an estimated 2.5 million people worldwide. The autoimmune basis of MS remains a key target of therapeutics designed to stop or slow disease progression. It is important therefore, that clinicians are aware of the precise immune mechanisms involved in the disease. Emerging data is starting to show age-related changes in immune function, which may have important consequences for treatment decisions as patients get older.

Objectives

A study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of an online educational intervention to improve knowledge among neurologists on age-related immune changes and how those changes may impact treatment decisions.

Methods

The online continuing medical education (CME) activity format consisted of a 15-minute video discussion with two expert faculty in MS. Educational effect was assessed by comparing a matched sample of neurologists’/PCPs’ responses to four identical questions presented before and directly after exposure to the intervention. A chi-square test was used to identify significant differences between pre- and post-assessment responses. Cramer’s V was used to calculate the effect size of the online education (0.06-0.15 is a noticeable effect, 0.16-0.26 considerable, and >0.26 extensive). Data from the participants were collected between May 24, 2019 and August 5, 2019.

Results

Participation in the CME intervention resulted in a considerable educational effect size among neurologists (n=200; V=.220, P<.001). The following areas showed significant (P <.05 for all) pre- vs post-educational improvements: identification of age-related changes to B- and T-cell function (28% relative improvement among neurologists); consequences of immunosenescence to consider when selecting a disease-modifying therapy (DMT) in MS (24% relative improvement); and selection of an appropriate DMT in older adults with MS (128% relative improvement). After participating in the activity, 50% of neurologists reported that participation in this educational activity improved their confidence in understanding the impact of immunosenescence on selecting a DMT for the management of MS.

Conclusions

The results indicated that the CME-certified 15-minute video discussion was effective at improving knowledge regarding the impact of age-related changes in immune function on the management of MS. Future education should continue to provide updates on immunosenescence in MS and how this impacts the selection of DMTs.

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