Multiple sclerosis knowledge among primary care physicians practicing in primary health centers in Bahrain: a cross-sectional study

The Kingdom of Bahrain is recognized as one of the countries with a high risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). As the initial point of contact for healthcare services in the Bahraini system, primary care physicians (PCPs) are not uncommonly confronted with MS patients in their practices. This study aimed to identify common knowledge gaps among PCPs in Bahrain across various aspects of MS to shorten diagnostic lag and enable smooth & comprehensive care flow for MS patients. This cross-sectional study took place between October and December 2023. All PCPs practicing in 27 health centers in Bahrain ( n = 428) were invited to complete a self-administered questionnaire assessing their socio-demographics, expertise, and background knowledge of MS pathophysiology, clinical diagnosis, investigations, and treatment. Only 211 completed the questionnaire (response rate = 49.3%). Most respondents retained adequate information about MS being an immune-mediated disorder (58.3%) of the central nervous system (58.3%), with higher occurrence among females (67.3%) in the 20–40 s age group (89%), with the relapsing-remitting being the most common type (60.2%) & MRI being the preferred initial diagnostic investigation in suspected cases (75.8%). Only 50.7% of respondants identified the time based criteria required for defining an MS relapse; however, 41.2% accredited Methylprednisolone 500-1000 mg as the main treatment of an MS relapse. Among those who reported knowledge of current disease-modifying therapies ( n = 102), interferon β was the most frequently reported (66; 64.7%). PCPs practicing in Bahrain have acceptable knowledge about MS demographics, causes, types, and symptoms, with shortcomings regarding the diagnosis and treatment. This should promote collaboration between PCPs and MS specialists and facilitate tailored educational workshops/seminars centred on the different aspects of MS care.