World Multiple Sclerosis Day (25/05)

Every year on the last Wednesday of May, many countries around the world celebrate World Multiple Sclerosis Day.

It was established in 2009 at the initiative of the International Federation of Multiple Sclerosis Societies to disseminate information about the disease, its prevention and treatment, and to consolidate the efforts of national and regional organizations within the framework of the Global Movement against Multiple Sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis – is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord. This is one of the most severe diseases of the central nervous system, leading to disability. Symptoms of multiple sclerosis are varied and numerous, with the most common – visual impairment, muscle weakness, coordination or memory problems, and chronic fatigue. Moreover, they either increase gradually or appear in a paroxysmal manner.

Due to clinical manifestations, a number of which are also characteristic of other diseases, multiple sclerosis is often difficult to diagnose. And since the disease is autoimmune, it is almost impossible to predict its occurrence. Doctors include stress, smoking, and living in an area with low natural light (which is associated with a decrease in vitamin D synthesis) as risk factors. Apparently this is why there is a difference in the prevalence of the disease by country: in northern countries it is much more common than in African countries.

Moreover, this disease has been known for quite some time – it was described back in the 19th century. But the cause of multiple sclerosis, like many other autoimmune diseases, is still unknown, which means there is no treatment yet, although there are ways to improve the condition of patients with certain forms of multiple sclerosis and prevent exacerbations.

Over the past few decades, the arsenal of healthcare professionals has been replenished with a large number of drugs that can slow the progression of recurrent multiple sclerosis. Doctors around the world are constantly working to develop new drugs and methods for treating the disease. But so far the prospects for such patients are progressive disability, a significant decrease in quality and a reduction in life expectancy.

Every year this disease affects more and more people. According to experts, approximately 2.3 million people around the world are diagnosed with – multiple sclerosis, but the number of people suffering from this disease is higher, as many cases remain undiagnosed. According to the All-Russian public organization of disabled people – patients with multiple sclerosis, as of 2020, a total of 92 thousand citizens with multiple sclerosis were identified among the population of the Russian Federation.

It is also important to say that multiple sclerosis – is not a hereditary disease or age-related. Moreover, this disease of young – most often manifests multiple sclerosis at the age of 25–40, that is, among the most able-bodied part of society. This means that it becomes one of the main causes of non-traumatic disability and disability at a young age, being a pressing socially significant problem in modern neurology.

Today's date – is an opportunity not only to remember people living with a serious diagnosis, but also to talk about the importance of timely diagnosis, regular examinations and care for one's own health.

As part of the Day, in many countries, medical, public and charitable organizations are holding various events to inform the population about this disease and its real consequences, organizing medical forums, educational lectures and scientific and practical conferences on this issue, methods of diagnosis and therapy of the disease. Charity campaigns are being held to raise funds for those suffering from the disease and their families.

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