World Multiple Sclerosis Day

It is an opportunity to renew the commitment to work towards a future in which all people affected by MS can live with dignity and hope.

Every May 30th, World Multiple Sclerosis Day (MS) is commemorated, a date established in 2009 by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) to raise awareness about this chronic neurological disease that affects millions of people worldwide.

This is an autoimmune pathology that impacts the central nervous system, causing a wide range of symptoms that vary among patients and may include fatigue, vision problems, motor and cognitive difficulties.

Global Overview: Numbers are Rising

Globally, it is estimated that approximately 2.9 million people live with multiple sclerosis, according to data from the MSIF updated in 2023. This figure represents a significant increase compared to the 2.3 million reported in 2013, showing an increase of 26% in a decade. This growth is attributed, in part, to improvements in diagnostic methods and greater awareness of the disease.

The global prevalence is approximately 35.9 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, although this figure varies considerably by region. For example, in Europe, the prevalence reaches 142.81 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, while in Africa it is 8.76 per 100,000.

The disease primarily affects young adults, with an average age of diagnosis of 32 years, and is more common in women, who are twice as likely to develop it compared to men.

Situation in the Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic, multiple sclerosis has historically been considered a disease of low prevalence. However, in recent years an increase in the number of diagnosed cases has been observed. According to data from the National Health Service, the current prevalence in the country is 3.9 patients per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to 1.6 per 100,000 in 2016. This represents a significant increase in less than a decade.

Currently, it is estimated that around 340 people live with multiple sclerosis in the Dominican Republic. Of these, approximately 180 receive medical care through the Demyelinating Diseases program of the Hospital Padre Billini, according to information from the National Health Service. The disease predominantly affects young women, with a ratio of four women for every man diagnosed, and usually manifests between the ages of 20 and 40.

The treatment of multiple sclerosis involves the use of disease-modifying drugs, symptomatic therapies, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation. In the Dominican Republic, the high-cost program of the Ministry of Public Health provides access to nine drugs for the treatment of MS, out of the more than 20 available internationally. However, access to these treatments can be limited due to economic and logistical factors.

The annual cost of treatment for a patient with multiple sclerosis can range from one to three million Dominican pesos, depending on the severity of the disease and the type of therapy required. This high cost represents a significant burden for both patients and the public health system.

World Multiple Sclerosis Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the disease, promote research, and advocate for public policies that improve the quality of life for affected individuals. In the Dominican Republic, various organizations and support groups work to provide information, emotional support, and resources to patients and their families.

The commemoration of this day also seeks to combat the stigma associated with multiple sclerosis and foster a greater understanding of the challenges faced by those living with this disease. Through educational campaigns and community events, the aim is to empower patients and promote a more inclusive and supportive society. Multiple sclerosis is a complex and challenging disease that requires a comprehensive approach including early diagnosis, access to effective treatments, and ongoing support. In the Dominican Republic, although the prevalence remains low compared to other regions, the increase in the number of cases highlights the need to strengthen health services, improve access to treatments, and promote research.