167 patients disabled by multiple sclerosis were interviewed to ascertain their views about being told the name of the disease causing their disability. 30 were ignorant of the nature of their disease. 83% favoured knowing the diagnosis, 13% were indifferent, and less than 4% preferred not to know the diagnosis. Almost a quarter of the patients had discovered the diagnosis for themselves. All the respondents thought that the consultant was the person who should convey the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
KIE: In a study initiated by the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, 83% of a group of multiple sclerosis patients were found through interviews to believe they had a "basic right" to be told the true nature of their diagnosis. All of the patients agreed that the consultant physician, and not family members or paramedical personnel, should inform the patient. The authors comment that reasons for withholding the diagnosis center around the fear of causing depression or even suicide, and the desire to maintain hope. However, the burden of proof should be accepted by those who advocate a policy of non-disclosure.