Raise public awareness of multiple sclerosis, experts say

People with multiple sclerosis are living with a condition yet to be fully understood by the general public, experts have said.

A lack of knowledge on the condition is especially prevalent among potential spouses and employers.

“Awareness needs to be raised among the public and employers,” said Dr Ahmed Shatila, consultant neurologist at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City and member of the National MS Society.

“There are still some people who don’t want to get married to those with MS, and many employers don’t understand employees with MS.”

Dr Shatila’s comments coincided with the society’s launch of the Move for MS programme during Ramadan, to encourage the wider community to support those living with the condition.

“We have come a long way. We have gone leaps and bounds but we aren’t there yet,” he said.

MS is an immune disorder caused by damage to the protective cover around nerve fibres called myelin, impairing the ability of nerves to transmit impulses to and from the brain. It can cause muscle weakness, numbness, vision changes and memory issues.

Symptoms vary from person to person based on the location of the affected nerve fibres and the severity of the disease’s impact on the central nervous system.

While there is currently no cure for the neurological disorder, treatments are widely available to manage symptoms and help to delay the disease’s progression.

The Move for MS initiative offers a range of activities for people with the condition, including walking, jogging, cycling, swimming and hiking.

Participants from all backgrounds are encouraged to participate in the initiative that also coincides with World Multiple Sclerosis Month, which has been taking place throughout March.

About 2,100 people across the UAE are taking part in Move for MS, with more than 20,000km recorded so far by those taking part.

One resident with the condition said education around MS needed to improve.

“There definitely needs to be more awareness about MS among the public and provisions for people with MS in the workplace,” said Syrian-American health coach Fatima Makhlouf.

“Some people are not comfortable revealing their diagnosis because of potential bias and stigma. MS is a condition that can be managed with support, understanding and compassion.”

Ms Makhlouf, 47, has found that exercise is key to managing her symptoms.

“I always say that the best exercise for MS is the thing you do consistently,” she said. “So, if you love swimming, do swimming. If you love yoga, do yoga. Find an exercise that fits your lifestyle.”