Every year on the last Wednesday of May, World Dispersive Sclerosis Day or World Multiple Sclerosis Day ( World Multiple Sclerosis Day ) is held in many countries around the world.
It was established in 2009 at the initiative of the International Federation of Disperate Sclerosis Societies with the aim of disseminating information about this disease, its prevention and treatment, as well as to consolidate the efforts of national and regional organizations within the framework of the Global Movement against Sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis – 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 diverse and numerous, among the most common – visual impairment, muscle weakness, coordination or memory problems, chronic fatigue. Moreover, they either grow gradually, or appear in a fit manner.
Due to clinical manifestations, some of which are characteristic of other diseases, multiple sclerosis is often difficult to diagnose. And since the disease is autoimmune, it is almost impossible to predict its appearance. Doctors include stress, smoking, living in a low-risk area of ( which is associated with a decrease in vitamin D synthesis ). Apparently, therefore, there is a difference in the prevalence of the disease across countries: in northern countries it is much more common than in Africa.
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 not known until now, and therefore, treatment does not yet exist, although there are ways to improve the condition of patients with some forms of multiple sclerosis, prevent exacerbations.
Over the past few decades, the arsenal of health professionals has replenished with a large number of drugs to slow down the progression of recurring multiple sclerosis. Doctors around the world are constantly working on the development of new drugs and methods for treating the disease. But while the prospects for such patients are – progressive disability, a significant decrease in quality and a decrease 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 greater, as many cases remain undetected. According to the All-Russian Public Organization of Disabled Persons – patients with multiple sclerosis, in 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. Moreover, this is a disease of young – most often multiple sclerosis manifests itself at the age of 25 – 40 years, that is, among the most able-bodied part of society. This means that it becomes one of the main reasons for non-traumatic disability and disability at a young age, being an urgent socially significant problem of modern neurology.
Today's date – is the opportunity not only to recall people living with a severe diagnosis, but also to talk about the importance of timely diagnosis, regular examinations and taking care of their own health.
Within the framework of the Day, in many countries, various events are held by medical, public and charitable organizations to inform the population about this disease and its real consequences, medical forums are organized, educational lectures and scientific and practical conferences on this issue, on methods of diagnosis and therapy of the disease. Charitable fundraising campaigns are held for those suffering from ailment and their families.