MS is a disease that takes many forms

If you live in Canada, studies show your risk of developing multiple sclerosis is higher than anywhere else on the planet. Canada has the highest rate of MS in the world. An estimated 100,000 Canadians live with the disease, and according to new research the number of people affected by MS is expected to rise.

“The incidence of MS in Canada is disproportionate when compared to other countries,” says Angelica Asis, acting director of research for the MS Society of Canada. “Canadians are concerned about why we have the highest rates in the world. It is likely that environmental, lifestyle and genetic factors are in play, and we need to invest in more research to understand how each interrelates with the other.”

Multiple sclerosis is considered an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that attacks myelin, a protective barrier around nerves. Each attack of inflammation causes damage to an area of myelin.

Research is underway to better understand the causes of MS, and why Canadians seem particularly vulnerable to developing this condition. Multiple sclerosis can take many forms. It can surface as a mild impairment, leading to occasional symptoms such as muscle spasms, twitches or mood swings. The onset of MS can also be swift and severe, causing full or partial paralysis, loss of vision and cognitive impairment.

Each person’s experience with MS is different, and therefore treatments can vary. Due to its unpredictable nature, a personalized approach to treatment and symptom management is necessary. It is important that people with MS, along with their loved ones, get all the information they need when making decisions about their treatment.

MS can be divided into several basic categories, depending on how the disease presents itself in individuals and how it progresses over time. (Source: Canadians have many reasons to celebrate. But despite the high standard of living, Canada has the world’s highest rate of multiple sclerosis. MS Society of Canada) Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) This refers to a single episode of neurological symptoms that is often an early sign of MS. Further testing can determine whether there is evidence of damage in the brain or spinal cord. Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) The vast majority of Canadians with MS — about 85 per cent — are first diagnosed with this form of the disease. It is distinguished by a clearly defined onset of neurological symptoms, followed by periods of partial or complete remission. Relapsing-remitting MS affects women up to three times more than men. Secondary-progressive MS (SPMS) SPMS often follows the initial relapsing-remitting disability, with fewer or no distinct relapses and remissions. Some people with secondary-progressive MS will develop more disability than others, with most remaining of disability that worsens over time. Symptoms may stabilize for a while, but there are no defined periods of relapse and remission.

Most people are diagnosed with PPMS after age 40 and it is the only type of MS that affects both men and women equally. People living with PPMS usually have more spinal lesions, so they often present with walking difficulties. There is currently no approved treatment for PPMS; however, there is promise, as a therapy has been submitted to Health Canada and has been approved by the U.S. FDA.