ASEQ-EHAQ

L'Association pour la santé environnementale du Québec / Environmental Health Association of Quebec

Experiences of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) in Québec : Experiences, Healthcare Access, Accommodation, and Recognition

Project Overview

People living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) continue to face significant barriers in accessing healthcare, obtaining appropriate accommodations, securing recognition of their disability, and participating fully in everyday life. Despite increasing awareness of MCS, many individuals report that their experiences remain poorly understood, their symptoms dismissed, and their accommodation needs inconsistently addressed.

The Environmental Health Association of Québec (ASEQ-EHAQ) is conducting a province-wide research study to better understand the experiences of people living with MCS in Québec, as well as the perspectives of their caregivers and family members. By documenting these experiences, the project aims to identify opportunities to improve accessibility, strengthen healthcare responses, and support more inclusive public policies and services.

Purpose of the Study

This project seeks to better understand the experiences of people living with MCS in Québec in relation to:

  • Access to healthcare services;
  • Requests for accommodation in healthcare, employment, education, housing, and public settings;
  • Recognition of MCS by healthcare providers, institutions, employers, and government;
  • Experiences of stigma, disbelief, and dismissal;
  • Housing access and accessibility challenges; and
  • The impacts of institutional practices and public policy on daily life.

How the Study Works

Participants will be invited to complete a brief online survey. Individuals who indicate an interest may also be invited to participate in an online focus group to discuss their experiences in greater depth.

The study includes:

  • An online survey (approximately 5–7 minutes);
  • Online focus groups (approximately 90 minutes);
  • Participation available in both English and French;
  • Remote participation from anywhere in Québec.

Who Can Participate?

We are seeking participation from:

  • Adults (18 years and older) living in Québec with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS); and
  • Adult caregivers or family members of individuals living with MCS.

Participation begins with a brief screening survey.

To access the screening survey, click here:

Important Notice
This study is currently in the development phase. Data collection will begin only after research ethics approval has been obtained. Participation is not possible at this time.

Why This Research Matters

The experiences of people living with MCS are essential to improving accessibility and reducing barriers across healthcare, housing, employment, education, and public services.

By participating, individuals will contribute to evidence that can help:

  • Improve understanding of MCS;
  • Identify barriers to equitable healthcare and accommodation;
  • Inform accessibility initiatives and policy development;
  • Strengthen education and awareness among healthcare professionals and institutions; and
  • Support advocacy efforts aimed at improving recognition and inclusion for people living with MCS.

Community-Led Research

This study has been developed in collaboration with ASEQ-EHAQ’s Disability Advisory Committee, whose members bring lived experience with MCS and have contributed to the project’s design, accessibility, recruitment strategies, and interpretation of findings. Their ongoing involvement helps ensure that the research reflects community priorities and remains grounded in lived experience.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Participation is voluntary. All information collected will be treated confidentially and managed in accordance with approved research ethics procedures. Survey responses and focus group data will be de-identified before analysis, and findings will be reported only in aggregate form or using anonymized quotations.

Knowledge Translation

Study findings will be shared with participants, community organizations, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public through:

  • Bilingual summary reports;
  • Educational webinars;
  • Presentations;
  • Policy briefs;
  • Academic publications; and
  • Resources developed by ASEQ-EHAQ to support accessibility and inclusion.

Together, this research will help strengthen the evidence needed to improve recognition, accommodation, and equitable access to healthcare and community participation for people living with MCS throughout Québec.

For more information:
514-332-4320 | contact@aseq-ehaq.ca