It's the way you ask that matters: comparison of data relating to prevalence of incontinence aid use from two surveys of people with multiple sclerosis.

The method used for data collection and research affects the outcomes and must be carefully considered when planning studies and when evaluating study results. This article presents the profound differences in outcomes generated by anonymous questionnaire vs face-to-face interviews. In this limited study regarding the use of incontinence aids among individuals with multiple sclerosis, the prevalence rates generated by questionnaire were 3 times the rates generated by interviews. Possible reasons for this discrepancy are addressed, and implications for research and for practice are identified.