New York, NY (Vocus) May 27, 2010
This year on May 26, the world unites once more in the MS movement to highlight the international effects of multiple sclerosis (MS). Organized by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) with the help of MS Societies in 62 countries, including the United States, the day will be marked by more than 200 events around the world in a concerted effort to build awareness for MS and enhance collaboration that will bring us closer to a world free of multiple sclerosis.
This year to bring home the importance of what an MS diagnosis can mean, which occurs hourly in the US, the MSIF initiated the first global survey covering 125 countries and examining the Global Impact of Multiple Sclerosis. Estimates among the 15 nations tracking such data, indicate that the average annual costs of MS to the person affected and society as a whole to be $ 41,335, and most currently in the US, $ 69,118. Based on an MS population in the U.S. of 400,000 that would mean the total yearly impact of MS in the United States is $ 28 billion. Loss of employment, or early retirement, was considered to be the single largest factor contributing to this financial cost.
http://www.msif.org/en/get_involved/world_ms_day_2010/economic_impact.html
MS is found in every country in the world, and is one of the most common neurological diseases amongst people in their 20s and 30s. It is a prime of life disease striking just when people are building their careers and families. MS affects at least twice as many women as men and up to 60% of people diagnosed with MS will experience long-term disability, though continuing medical breakthroughs have brought partially effective treatments to many.
How to Get Involved in World MS Day
Think globally and act locally by:
Help Support World MS Day - May 26, 2010; Join with 62 Countries to Mobilize the Global MS Movement
