Health education project on the neurological manifestations of multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: Describing the experience of participating in an educational project focused on multiple sclerosis for both academic and general audiences through sensory experiences similar to those faced by people with the disease, as well as analyzing the impact of these experiences on the daily lives of affected individuals. Experience report: The project involved a tent with stations where sensory and motor experiences analogous to the difficulties faced by people with MS were demonstrated. It was directed at health science students and the general community of Divinópolis, MG. In addition to the physical experience, information about the disease was provided. The activity took place at the campuses of UFSJ-CCO and UEMG in 2019, and in public squares of the aforementioned city in 2024. The team was composed of medical students from UFSJ, the project’s coordinating professor, and the president of the Minas Gerais Association for Support to People with Multiple Sclerosis (AMAPEM). The simulations were conducted through the participants' interaction with objects representing different sensory modalities: weakness, ataxia, spasticity, diplopia, and paresthesia. Final considerations: It was observed that stigmas persist, and knowledge about MS remains limited. Thus, the tent project successfully fostered understanding of the clinical manifestations and biopsychosocial issues faced by individuals affected by the disease.