Background and Aim: Epidemiological studies in recent decades have been indicative of increased prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the world. In this study we investigated awareness, risk perception, and protective behaviors in relation to multiple sclerosis among people in Sanandaj, Iran.

Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 800 people over 15 years of age. Samples were selected randomly from all of the city areas. The questionnaire included questions regarding demographic information, knowledge, perception of risk and protective behavior for MS. Using STATA12; data were analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistical tests including x² and regression. P-value less than 0.05 were considered significant.

Results: Mean age of the participants was 38.27±14.91 years. In all age groups, the knowledge of the participants about MS was low (P<0.001). Knowledge and perceived risk showed significant relationships with educational level (P< 0.001). The knowledge about MS and the perception of risk were higher in women compared to men (P< 0.03). The most important source of knowledge about MS was the relatives’ information (46.4%).

Conclusion: Knowledge of people of Sanandaj about multiple sclerosis was suboptimal. Designing and implementation of intervention programs to enhance people's understanding of MS, ways to prevent, and promoting protective behaviors at the community level is necessry.

Keywords:  Multiple Sclerosis, Knowledge, Perceived Risk, Protective Behaviors, Sanandaj.

Received: Oct 31, 2015      Accepted: Jan 05, 2016