Thursday, May 30, on the occasion of World Multiple Sclerosis Day, sixty-five patients affected by this disease responded to the joint invitation from the Notre Sclerosis association and the Inserm research institute. They were able to talk with caregivers, doctors, scientists. The researchers presented their work on genetics, an electronic gait measurement tool, memory or the microbiota, etc.
“Over the last twenty years, there has been a major turning point in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Since 1995 and interferon. We better understand the mechanisms of the disease. We do not know how to treat it – in the strict sense – but we know how to reduce and prevent inflammation (flare-ups), the main cause of the disease, underlines Justine Couturier, neurologist at Nantes University Hospital, who returned to science studies as a thesis to do research. Today, we have a much broader therapeutic arsenal, with different methods of administration. This allows for personalized medicine. The treatment is adapted to each person. The patient becomes an actor in his treatment. »
“The treatments do not erase the handicaps already established. But they prevent new outbreaks and the appearance of new disabilities. »
2.8 million people affected worldwide
Multiple sclerosis affects 2.8 million worldwide and 120,000 people in France. It constitutes the leading cause of severe non-traumatic disability in young adults. It is an inflammatory disease of the brain and spinal cord. It is therefore part of neurodegenerative diseases, targeting the brain and in particular the myelin sheath which is used for nerve conduction.
This dysfunction will gradually destroy areas of the brain, leading to motor, sensory, cognitive and visual disorders. Multiple sclerosis is mainly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 and affects 3/4 women.
