What Is MS

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system in which the simplest everyday tasks can no longer be taken for granted. Its symptoms run from slight blurring of vision to complete paralysis. MS affects the brain’s ability to control functions such as walking, talking, seeing, hearing, arm movements, and more. An estimated 400,000 to 500,000 Americans are diagnosed with MS and another 200 cases are diagnosed each week. MS is the most common central nervous system disease among young Americans, usually striking people during their 20s and 30s. Currently, there is no drug able to cure MS, but treatments are available which can modify the course of the disease.

MS Quick Facts

* There are over 400,000 Americans with Multiple Sclerosis
* About 200 people are diagnosed with MS every week
* Twice as many women have MS
* The onset of symptoms occurs most often between the ages of 20 and 40
* Life span is not significantly affected by MS
* MS is not contagious
* MS is more common in countries further from the equator
* MS is rarely diagnosed under 12 and over 55 years of age
* MS is not directly hereditary, although genetic susceptibility plays a part in the development
* MS is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system in young adults
* There is no drug that can cure MS, but treatments are now available which can modify the course of the disease