The Middle East Multiple Sclerosis Patients Platform was launched in the UAE. An affiliation of independent Multiple sclerosis organizations, key opinion leaders, healthcare groups and commercial corporations who have joined hands to be a part of this cause, the newly launched organization aims to enhance the quality of life for all those affected by MS.
“We are committed to building a movement by and for people with MS that will move us closer to a world free of multiple sclerosis. Every hour someone is newly diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis. We want to inspire and encourage people to take action to join this movement and end the suffering of patients with this disease across the region”. Said Dr Tawfik Alsadi, Head of Neurology Division at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi.
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic neurological disorder that affects the Central Nervous system which includes the brain and the spinal cord. The cells within the nervous system are damaged with the progression of this disease which eventually impairs the nerve signals; further damaging normal sensation, movement and thinking.
Multiple sclerosis or �MS’ is a complex disease. While it is most often diagnosed in young adults, aged 15 to 40, its known that it affects children, some as young as two years old. The impact is felt by family, friends and by the community. Multiple sclerosis is unpredictable, affecting vision, hearing, memory, balance and mobility. Its effects are physical, emotional, financial, and last a lifetime. There is no cure yet powerful treatment can ensure that patients have a normal life.
The new organization aims to streamline the advocacy, education and support activities across the region, from UAE to Iran, Lebanon to Egypt to provide ongoing support and direct services to these individuals with MS and the people close to them.
Due to its complexity and variety of symptoms, spokesperson Dr Tawfik Alsadi says that MS is not easy to diagnose. “There is no single or specific diagnostic test that is proof-positive to establish the diagnosis. Moreover, other conditions with similar symptoms may need to be ruled out before a final diagnosis can be made. There are different ways to tackle the problems caused by MS. Disease modifying drugs can help to reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, while many MS symptoms can be effectively managed using a variety of treatments”.
WAM