[The social and medical situation of people suffering from multiple sclerosis--considerations on the basis of an epidemiologic field study (author's transl)].

Within the framework of an epidemiologic field study conducted in South Niedersachsen a standardised questionnaire was used to obtain data on the social and medical situation of persons with multiple sclerosis. Of the 195 people with multiple sclerosis questioned in that area in 1976 answers were received from 178 (91%). The mean age was 46 years, the average history of disease 15 years. Family status and social position corresponded to social average. A social downfall as a result of the disease was not found to have taken place. Approximately 50% who had been employed prior to the disease (N = 147) had given up their jobs at the time of the survey. The monthly net income was found to be average. Of the studied persons 42% were living in their own houses or flats. A lower percentage, compared to the general public, was living in lodgings (58% instead of 65,7%). The majority (56%) was living in flats suitable for the disabled. 13% of the surveyed persons lived alone, 5% in homes. Social care was found to be very poor in comparison with medical treatment. The introduction of compulsory notification for this disease was advocated by 83% of the people questioned.