Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive neurological disease and affects the central nervous system (CNS). Presently, exact cause of MS is unknown, but it is known that something triggers the immune system to attack the CNS. This results in damage to myelin, which is the protective layer of tissue around the nerve fibers and disrupts signals to and from the brain. This interruption of communication signals can cause unpredictable symptoms such as numbness, tingling, mood changes, memory problems, pain, fatigue, blindness and/or paralysis. Today, 2.8 million people around the world have MS.
It is estimated that around 15.000 people are affected by MS in Switzerland. In 80% of those affected, first symptoms appear at the age of 20-40. With these numbers, MS presents the most common neurological disease diagnosed at this stage of life. In 3-10% of cases, MS may also develop in early childhood.
The theme for World MS Day 2024 is “diagnosis” and the tagline is: navigating MS together. The My MS Diagnosis campaign advocates for early and accurate diagnosis for everyone living with MS. It highlights the global barriers to diagnosing MS, raising awareness by sharing real stories and data. We are calling for better MS training for healthcare professionals, new research, and clinical advancements in MS diagnosis. Together we are building informed, caring communities and systems that support people diagnosed with MS.