Education Partnership Research Articles

The transformative impact and evolving landscape: A comprehensive exploration of the globalization of higher education in the 21st century

ABSTRACT The globalisation of higher education has been a significant trend over the past few decades, driven by various factors such as economic, political, and technological advancements. This trend has resulted in the increased international mobility of students, faculty, and academic programmes, as well as the growth of transnational education providers and partnerships. While the globalisation of higher education has many benefits, such as increased access to educational opportunities and a more diverse student body, it also presents several challenges, such as concerns about quality and standardisation, commercialisation, and cultural impact. To maximise the benefits and address the challenges of the globalisation of higher education, policymakers, educators, and stakeholders should promote internationalisation, ensure quality and standardisation, foster collaboration and partnerships, address equity and access issues, and emphasise the value of local education and culture. Future research can explore the impact of globalisation on the quality and relevance of higher education, the role of technology and commercialisation, the effect on cultural diversity, and the future of work, among other areas.

Empowering Stigmatized Voices: Cocreating a Curriculum on Pain and Opioid Use Disorder With Patient Partners.

This study explores the partnership experiences of patient and health care professional (HCP) subject matter experts (SMEs) in cocreating educational content and examines their reflections on how to better support educational partnerships in future initiatives. In this qualitative, exploratory study, semistructured interviews of patient and HCP SMEs were conducted between February and August 2022. Interviews were conducted with videoconferencing software, audio recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Interviews were analyzed using an iterative, inductive approach informed by reflexive thematic analysis. Eight patient SMEs and 6 HCP SMEs were interviewed. Three themes and 8 subthemes were developed to represent SMEs' experiences. The overarching themes included (1) building authentic partnerships, (2) developing equitable partnership processes, and (3) setting the stage for successful cocreation. Authentic partnerships were conceptualized as relationships that foster meaningful engagement, provide opportunities for learning and growing together, and require navigation of tensions and constraints. Equitable partnership processes included creating shared expectations and facilitating open and clear communication among partners. Participants discussed how future partnerships can benefit by embracing diversity and innovation, encouraging sustained engagement, and facilitating high-quality processes and products. The findings of this study highlight that positive cocreation experiences are characterized by building authentic partnerships, developing equitable partnership processes, and setting the stage for successful cocreation. Future work can build on these findings to further explore how to best foster cocreation within educational partnerships.

Developing an Inclusive, Student-Led Approach to Scaling Up the Benefits of Pedagogical Partnership for Social Justice in Higher Education

Developing an Inclusive, Student-Led Approach to Scaling Up the Benefits of Pedagogical Partnership for Social Justice in Higher Education

A Collaboration Between a Public Library and Health Educators to Promote Community Health

ABSTRACT Background Public libraries in the United States are increasingly becoming involved in community health education programs, many of which are designed to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Purpose The purpose of this article was to explore the collaboration between a public library and health educators to enhance population health. Methods This mixed-methods cross-sectional study included an online and paper survey, key informant interviews, and focus groups with library leadership and personnel. Results A strong base of support for the library to become a key partner in community health education was found. Community members were most interested in nutrition and healthy eating, physical activity, mental health, and programs on finding reliable health information. Key stakeholders and library leadership and personnel perceived the library to be a rich and trusted organization primed to become more involved in community health education Discussion The involvement of public health educators in this study strengthened the library’s capacity to conduct a rigorous needs assessment for the planning of community health education initiatives. Translation to Health Education Practice Health education is often focused on chronic disease prevention programs based on sound needs assessments and engaging stakeholders. This study’s findings directly address NCHEC Area 1 competencies – Assessment of Needs and Capacity and Area II competencies – Engaging priority populations, partners, and stakeholders for participation in the planning process.

P-1276. Infant Treatment for Congenital Syphilis Among Syphilis-Impacted Pregnancies

Abstract Background Congenital syphilis (CS) has been rising in the U.S. since 2013 and is a significant public health challenge1. The Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) Treatment Guidelines provide treatment recommendations for four different clinical scenarios based on adequacy of treatment during pregnancy, laboratory testing of both the infant and birth parent, and clinical signs2. We used data from the Surveillance for Emerging Threats to Pregnant People and Infants Network3 from five U.S. state and local health departments to describe patterns of treatment among infants born to people with syphilis during pregnancy (Figure 1). Methods Infants were classified based on modified STI Treatment Guidelines clinical scenarios2, and included three of the four clinical scenarios: confirmed/highly probable CS, possible CS, and CS less likely. We describe the frequency of prenatal and neonatal characteristics among those who did and did not receive treatment as recommended by the STI Treatment Guidelines (Figure 2). Results Of the 1368 liveborn infants with complete medical record abstraction, 13% were classified as confirmed/highly probable CS, 33% as possible CS, and 54% as CS less likely (Figure 3). Frequency of receiving the standard of care was 65% for confirmed/highly probable, 76% for possible, and 34% for CS less likely. The frequency of no reported treatment was 16% for confirmed/highly probable CS, 20% for possible CS, and 45% for CS less likely. The frequency of no reported treatment among confirmed/highly probable CS was highest among infants born to people who were Black non-Hispanic, though numbers were small. Of infants with CS less likely, 18% received more than the recommended one dose (Table). Conclusion This report highlights opportunities for improvement in care of infants exposed to syphilis, including racial disparities in recommended care4, that require multipronged approaches to address. Provider education and strong partnerships with well-resourced public health systems can improve coordination of care to ensure infants receive the standard of care. Efforts to improve care of syphilis exposed infants must include efforts to better address larger issues of systematic racism and historical injustices in healthcare and public health to improve equity.Table.Cohort Characteristics by Clinical Scenario and Infant Treatment Status Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Evaluating challenges and policy innovations for renewable energy development in a circular economy: A path to environmental resilience in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia is one of the largest greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters due to its heavy reliance on fossil fuels, has begun taking proactive steps to address climate change under Vision 2030. The initiative aims to reduce the country's GHG emissions. As part of this effort, the government is transitioning to renewable energy (RE) to decrease its dependency on oil and support sustainable environmental development. Additionally, the circular economy (CE) model, which promotes resource efficiency, waste reduction, and recycling, aligns with the core principles of RE, further enhancing the country's shift toward sustainability. Saudi Arabia has great potential for RE development but faces some challenges that call for the attention of major policy innovations. Therefore, this study used the fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method to assess the twelve key challenges. The fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method is used to prioritize the seven policy actions for RE development within a CE framework in Saudi Arabia. The fuzzy DEMATEL findings indicate that the lack of regulatory support, high investment costs, and lack of skilled workforce are the most critical challenges. While the fuzzy TOPSIS shows that community engagement, diversifying funding sources, and educational partnerships are the top-ranked policy actions. These proposed policy actions are useful for maximizing RE potential, facilitating CE practices, and advancing environmental sustainability in Saudi Arabia. This study present that the policy innovations should be useful for governments and policymakers in adapting challenges and opportunities to achieve the aims of Saudi Vision (2030).

School-Based Physical Activity Program Implementation Is Enhanced With Support From Community-Based Partners.

School-based physical activity (PA) programs are an equitable, evidence-based approach to combat health and PA disparities. This study examined factors associated with implementation of BE Physically Active 2Day (BEPA 2.0), a K-5 school-based PA program, and examined how support from Cooperative Extension via Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) partners influenced implementation. Teachers in schools receiving BEPA 2.0 trainings were surveyed about program use 3-6 months post-training. Descriptive and chi-square analyses were conducted to evaluate the relationships between implementation factors (e.g., training, support, barriers) and program delivery. Logistic regression was used to summarize the odds of program delivery related to implementation factors. Responses were returned by 355 teachers. The odds of program delivery among trained respondents were 2.64 (1.22, 5.47) times the odds among untrained respondents. Most implementors (72.4%) provided activities 1-2 times/week. More frequent implementation (≥ 3 times/week) [OR = 2.43 (1.27, 4.73)] and fewer barriers were reported among those who received support from SNAP-Ed partners (p = 0.01). SNAP-Ed program partnerships should be considered when implementing school-based strategies to increase PA opportunities for vulnerable youth. High PA program implementation among trained teachers was enhanced with partner support.

Enhancing Strategic Partnerships in Higher Education: Developing and Implementing a Predictive Model

Enhancing Strategic Partnerships in Higher Education: Developing and Implementing a Predictive Model

Mapping the Network: Identifying UAE Philanthropies’ Partners in Education

Mapping the Network: Identifying UAE Philanthropies’ Partners in Education

A Qualitative Assessment of Barriers, Facilitators, and Outcomes in a Simulation-Based Collaborative Quality Improvement Program: The ImPACTS Project.

ImPACTS (Improving Acute Care Through Simulation) is a collaborative simulation-based program partnering pediatric specialty centers ("hubs") with general emergency departments (GEDs) to improve pediatric acute care. Objective measurements of ImPACTS, such as evaluating Pediatric Readiness Score (PRS) and simulation-based outcome improvements, have been reported previously. Barriers to and facilitators of program involvement and the downstream effects of the program have not been previously described. This study explores these aspects and key drivers for successful collaboration. The authors performed open coding of semistructured interviews of hub team members and pediatric emergency care coordinators (PECCs) from community GED "spokes." We then identified and explored themes within the categories of barriers to, facilitators of, and barrier mitigation strategies for successful partnerships from the perspectives of both groups. Analysis generated 4 dominant themes: buy-in, communication, personnel, and logistics. Engagement, institutional support, and buy-in of site leaders and individual participants were crucial to successful implementation, without which the programs were not completed or never started. Hubs benefited from project involvement via increased local engagement in pediatric readiness, organizational support, and further buy-in from institutional leadership, allowing for the future continuation of ImPACTS and similar programs. Benefits experienced by GEDs impacted education, pediatric readiness, and clinical and financial partnerships across institutions. Additionally, spoke interviewees cited downstream effects of participation, including increased collaboration and improved relationships with hub sites as being the most impactful. Understanding the key drivers of all collaborators is instrumental in successfully implementing large-scale educational and quality initiatives like the ImPACTS program.

Youth participatory action research (YPAR) to promote educational equity

The article uses theory and qualitative evidence to show how youth participatory action research (YPAR) can advance educational equity. YPAR engages young people and adult allies in research and action on issues in their schools and communities. Interviews with over two dozen YPAR researchers—students and partner teachers—elaborate the mechanisms through which school-based YPAR can affect equity, including through direct changes to policy and practice as a result of YPAR actions, a school culture that values student experiences, transformative teacher-student relationships, and improved individual outcomes for participants. To help theorize a theory of change, we draw on Doreen Massey’s space theory to explain how YPAR done in schools can transform culture, relationships, practice, and policy. Further, we suggest how YPAR can be infused in schools.

Contradictions and change: The dynamics of international collaboration in music education between India and Norway

This study explores contradictions in an international music education partnership project involving Norway and India. The study aims to contribute knowledge about systemic contradictions that might occur in international partnership projects in music education and to briefly discuss how such contradictions might energize international collaboration. Recordings from six project group meetings between the involved partners, recordings from a group conversation session, and the first author’s research diary constitute the empirical data in this study. The analysis is informed by cultural–historical activity theory, in which contradictions are viewed as both barriers to and energizers for development. The identified contradictions are categorized into three topics: the role of the music teacher, the role and type of music/music education, and the need for structure. The findings suggest that the identified contradictions can be attributed to three culturally and historically constituted discursive practices: the Indian educational system, the Norwegian school music tradition, and the guru-shishya tradition. Although it is a common perception that societal and systemic contradictions cannot be resolved within the boundaries of small-scale projects, such projects can create a third space in which the multivoicedness of discursive practices found in international collaboration can become a transformative force for new practice models. This could create opportunities to recognize motivational similarities despite perceived differing discursive practices.

Pharmacy technician education and training: Highlighting the partnership among a state pharmacy association, local community college, and healthcare system

Abstract Purpose Well-educated and well-trained pharmacy technicians play an integral part in the operation of pharmacies. However, recently, the pharmacy technician workforce has been declining due to many factors, including low salary, limited career advancement, and increasing responsibilities. Here a pharmacy technician student education and training partnership among a state pharmacy association, a community college, and a healthcare system is described. Summary Through this novel partnership, the state association provides the curriculum and instructors for the community college to offer the course and the health system provides real-world experiences. The dedicated course with didactic and simulation opportunities, coupled with the experiential learning opportunity, following successful course completion, can prepare pharmacy technician students to enter the workforce and potentially address recent workforce shortages. Conclusion Collaboration among a state pharmacy association, a community college, and a healthcare system or pharmacy may be a viable model in providing pharmacy technician education and training programs. Partnered health systems or pharmacies may benefit from having a consistent pool of well-trained, diverse, and dedicated pharmacy technicians to add to the workforce.

Late initiation of antenatal care visit amid implementation of new antenatal care model in Sub-Saharan African countries: A multilevel analysis of multination population survey data.

Although late initiation of antenatal care has been linked with adverse pregnancy outcomes, a significant number of pregnant women in resource-limited regions are seeking this care late. There has been a lack of information on the extent and factors influencing late initiation of antenatal care in the African context following the implementation of the new antenatal care model in 2016. Thus, we aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of late antenatal care visit and its determinants among women in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) using national surveys conducted after the implementation of new guidelines. We analyzed data from the recent demographic and health survey (DHS) conducted in 16 SSA between 2018 and 2022 using a weighted sample of 101,983 women who had antenatal care follow-up during their index pregnancy. A multilevel logistic regression models were fitted and likelihood and deviance values were used for model selection. In the regression model, we used adjusted odds ratios along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals to determine the factors associated with late antenatal care visit. The pooled prevalence of late antenatal care visit among pregnant women in SSA was 53.8% [95% CI: 46.2% - 61.3%], ranging from 27.8% in Liberia to 75.8% in Nigeria. Women's age and education, working status, partner's education, health insurance coverage, birth order, household wealth, age at marriage, decision on health care, residence, and community-level women's illiteracy were the factors associated with late antenatal care visit. More than half of pregnant women in SSA initiated attending antenatal care during late pregnancy, with significant differences seen among countries. These results underscore the necessity for focused interventions to tackle these issues and enhance prompt access to antenatal services for better maternal and child health outcomes in the area. Moreover, creating tailored interventions for younger women, those with multiple previous births, employed women, and those who experienced early marriage to address their specific challenges and obstacles in seeking care is crucial.

Validation of the contraception-focused Preference-aligned Fertility Management Index in Uganda and Nigeria.

This study aimed to evaluate construct validity of the contraception-focused "Preference-aligned Fertility Management" (PFM) Index, a new person-centered and rights-based outcome measure, in Nigeria and Uganda. We analyzed survey data from convenience samples of new users of contraception and nonusers of contraception in Uganda and users of contraception in Nigeria. PFM Index scores were calculated by combining two indicators: indicator 1 assessing alignment between desire to use contraception and actual use; indicator 2 evaluating whether users' current methods are desired. We developed a nomological network of related constructs and conducted bivariable logistic regressions, predicting the odds of PFM associated with each variable. A total of 71.3% of contraception users in Nigeria, 99.2% of new users in Uganda, and 42.9% of nonusers in Uganda were practicing contraception-focused PFM. In Nigeria, high Women's and Girls' Empowerment in Sexual and Reproductive Health Index scores and permission to visit a health center were significantly associated with higher odds of contraception-focused PFM (odds ratio [OR]=2.72; 95% CI=1.01-7.31; OR=2.64; 95% CI=1.04-6.73, respectively). In Uganda, women's and partner's secondary school education were significantly associated with higher odds of contraception-focused PFM (OR=2.58, 95% CI=1.58-4.24; OR=2.01; 95% CI=1.54-2.62, respectively); as were concordance with partner's desired number of children, recent experience of gender-based violence, and satisfaction with what (if anything) one is doing to prevent pregnancy (OR=1.48, 95% CI=1.30-1.69; OR=2.33; 95% CI=1.52-3.56; OR=4.44, 95% CI=2.77-7.12, respectively). The contraception-focused PFM Index demonstrated construct validity in Nigeria and Uganda. PFM and other new measures of self-defined need contribute to the paradigm shift underway to align contraception indicators with human rights principles. The contraception-focused PFM Index is a novel person-centered, rights-based measure that can be used to gauge whether individuals' self-defined needs related to contraception are met by programs and policies. Our study finds evidence for construct validity of the index among contraceptive users in Nigeria and Uganda and nonusers in Uganda.

To protect and serve: a review of initiatives to support of police officers to better meet the needs of older adult

PurposePolice officers increasingly respond to incidents involving aging-related issues, where older adults are vulnerable and require tailored approaches. This scoping review aims to map initiatives aimed at enhancing interactions between older adults and police and evaluates outcomes. Findings inform the development of a geriatrics-focused police training curriculum to support age-friendly policing. A literature search across major databases and grey literature yielded 20 relevant publications. Three main initiatives were identified: geriatrics-oriented training programs, specialized geriatric police units and geriatrics-oriented policing guidelines. These insights highlight effective strategies for improving police responses to aging-related challenges and guide future research and policy in this domain.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed a scoping review methodology guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual and PRISMA-ScR checklist. A comprehensive search strategy was developed and executed across multiple databases and grey literature sources. Screening and selection of relevant studies were conducted in duplicate, with data extraction focusing on key elements such as study objectives, design, interventions and outcomes. Thematic analysis was employed to synthesize findings from included studies, highlighting three principal initiatives: geriatrics-oriented training programs, specialized geriatric police units and geriatrics-oriented policing guidelines. This approach aimed to map existing evidence, inform the development of a geriatrics-focused training curriculum and identify best practices for age-friendly policing.FindingsThe scoping review identified 28 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Findings highlighted varied approaches to enhancing police interactions with older adults, emphasizing training as pivotal. Effective strategies included specialized units, tailored training programs and guidelines integrating geriatrics principles. Key outcomes encompassed improved officer knowledge, communication skills and attitudes toward older adults, fostering enhanced service delivery and community relations. Evidence underscored the importance of ongoing education and collaborative partnerships in optimizing policing responses to aging populations, advocating for sustainable, age-friendly policing practices.Research limitations/implicationsThe review’s limitations stem from primarily English-language studies, potentially overlooking non-English literature. Variability in study designs and outcomes poses challenges to synthesizing findings comprehensively. Limited generalizability may result due to geographic and cultural differences in policing practices. Future research could benefit from longitudinal studies assessing long-term impacts and broader inclusion of diverse policing contexts and perspectives, enhancing applicability and depth of understanding in optimizing police interactions with older adults.Practical implicationsPractical implications include informing policy makers and law enforcement agencies about effective strategies to enhance interactions with older adults, emphasizing communication skills and de-escalation techniques. Training programs should integrate age-sensitive approaches to improve officers’ awareness and response to older adults’ needs and vulnerabilities. Implementing community engagement initiatives can foster trust and cooperation, contributing to safer and more supportive environments for older adults in policing interactions. These efforts can ultimately promote enhanced well-being and reduced conflicts between law enforcement and older adults.Social implicationsSocial implications highlight the need for broader societal awareness and education regarding the challenges faced by older adults in interactions with law enforcement. Addressing ageism and promoting respectful treatment can enhance community trust and reduce misunderstandings. Improved interactions between older adults and law enforcement can foster a more inclusive and supportive society, ensuring that older adults feel valued and protected. This can contribute to overall social cohesion and a more equitable experience for older adults in their interactions with law enforcement agencies.Originality/valueThe originality of this study lies in its focus on the intersection of age-related issues and law enforcement interactions, a relatively underexplored area in both gerontology and criminal justice research. By examining the perceptions and experiences of older adults and law enforcement officers, it provides valuable insights into mitigating ageism and improving interactions. The study’s findings contribute to enhancing understanding of how to promote respectful and effective communication between these groups, thereby offering practical implications for policy and training initiatives aimed at fostering better relationships and outcomes for older adults in law enforcement encounters.

Population health strategies for health equity in chronic kidney disease management.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a widespread health issue, affecting one out of every 10 adults. This prevalence is even higher among vulnerable and underserved populations, including low-income individuals, racial and ethnic minorities, and immigrants. Urban areas such as New York City and Los Angeles County offer municipal safety-net healthcare systems for these groups. Safety-net providers are essential to the healthcare landscape for vulnerable populations with chronic diseases including the Los Angeles County Health Services that exemplifies how effective population health strategies can be utilized to manage CKD and at-risk persons. These approaches focus on risk assessment, integrated practices, patient and care-partner education, cost reduction, and strategic partnerships. Kidney care tailored "Expected Practices" ensure that management strategies are equitable and based on clinical evidence. The eConsult system allows CKD patients' primary care providers to efficiently consult nephrologists, facilitating timely specialty care appointments through "Precision Scheduling." Priority goals include slowing CKD progression, equitable access to home dialysis, and preemptive kidney transplantation. As highlighted by Kalantar-Zadeh et al. in 2025 CJASN, advancing equitable kidney care through population health approaches support comprehensive and efficient CKD management, including diabetic kidney disease, in Los Angeles County's safety-net system. With a large, underserved patient population affected by CKD, urban safety-net healthcare systems like those in Los Angeles County emphasize early detection, multidisciplinary management, shared decision-making, and equitable access to CKD. They prioritize equitable access to home dialysis modality choice and kidney transplantation, aiming to improve outcomes and the quality-of-life for diverse patient groups.

Gene model for the ortholog of Glys in Drosophila simulans.

Gene model for the ortholog of glycogen synthase ( Glys ) in the Drosophila simulans May 2017 (Princeton ASM75419v2/DsimGB2) Genome Assembly (GenBank Accession: GCA_000754195.3 ). This ortholog was characterized as part of a developing dataset to study the evolution of the Insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling pathway (IIS) across the genus Drosophila using the Genomics Education Partnership gene annotation protocol for Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences.

THE VHA’S GERIATRIC SCHOLARS PROGRAM IMPACT ON DEVELOPING AND DISSEMINATING CLINICAL INNOVATIONS

Abstract The Geriatric Scholars Program is an enterprise-wide VA workforce development project that has resulted in significant clinical improvements and innovations in care of older Veterans. The program has invested in the interdisciplinary primary care workforce with discipline-specific core training in geriatrics and in quality improvement. Each of the more than 1500 Scholars to date implements a quality improvement project to demonstrate transfer of new knowledge and skills in the care of older Veterans. Ove 15,000 VHA clinical employees regularly participate in interdisciplinary webinars, team training workshops, practica, and self-directed learning opportunities. There are over 5000 users of the resource website, www.gerischolars.org. This symposium explores some of the direct impacts of continuing professional education on the clinical care of older Veterans. Several program components will be discussed, including replication in Indian Health Service clinics, outcomes for caregivers of older Veterans, practice change for geropsychologists, and how the program’s quality improvement mentored program for Geriatric Scholars enhances outcomes for patients in VHA. The Geriatric Scholars Program has 15 Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC) partners in its network that have worked together for over 15 years to build capacity in the VHA healthcare workforce through innovative education and clinical approaches. The national GRECC Director in VHA will serve as discussant for what promises to be a lively exchange of ideas and opportunities for replication.

Sexual function and related predictors in male with multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: a case-control study.

Sexual dysfunction (SF) is a prevalent and distressing comorbidity in males with multiple sclerosis (MwMS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (MwNMOSD). This study aimed to assess the SF in MwMS and MwNMOSD in comparison to male healthy controls (HCs) and identify its associated predictors. This case-control study was conducted from February 2023 to January 2024 at the MS clinic of Kashani Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. Participants included 49 MwMS, 27 MwNMOSD, and 40 HCs. Demographic, clinical, and psychological data were collected, and SF was evaluated by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Linear regression was used to assess relationships between variables. SF was significantly worse in the MwMS and MwNMOSD compared to the HCs. SF was significantly lower in MwMS and MwNMOSD compared to HCs. In MwMS, significant independent predictors of SF included partner's education (B = -2.7, P= .003), anxiety (B = -0.6, P= .003), and depression (B = -0.3, P= .026). In MwNMOSD, significant independent predictors of SF were EDSS (B = -5.7, P= .007) and anxiety (B = -1, P= .002). Controlling risk factors such as depression and anxiety can improve SF of MwMS to a significant extent. Despite limitations like the cross-sectional design and exclusion of certain variables, our study identifies significant associations between sexual dysfunction and various risk factors in MwMS and MwNMOSD, emphasizing the need for future longitudinal research. MwMS and MwNMOSD exhibited worse SF than HCs. Multiple factors have been identified as independent predictors of SF within these patient groups.