MS stands for multiple sclerosis, a disease of the central nervous system affecting more young adult Australians than any other chronic neurological condition.
Who gets MS?
The average age of diagnosis is between 20 and 40 years old, and interestingly three times more women are affected by MS than men and it is more common in cooler climates.
In Australia, over 33,300 people currently have MS, however this figure is increasing as diagnosis methods become more advanced.
What are the typical symptoms of MS?
Symptoms of MS are unpredictable and change from person to person, and from time to time in the same person. Some of the symptoms of MS may include:
- tiredness
- blurry vision
- loss of balance and muscle coordination
- slurred speech
- difficulty walking
- short-term memory loss
- tingling and numbness or in severe cases tremors and paralysis
Can MS be cured?
MS is a lifelong disease for which a cure is yet to be found. However, doctors and scientists are making discoveries in treating and understanding MS everyday and research to find a cure is very encouraging.
While supporting this search for a cure, MS Queensland also provides information and advice on the treatments available, which means people with MS can better manage their symptoms.
What does MS Queensland do?
We provide support and care, offer information, fund research for a cure and raise awareness for multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases in Queensland.
The funds you raise are vital in enabling MS Queensland to provide services to over 5,500 Queenslanders living with MS. These services include our NeuroAssist information line, specialist nursing services, wellness programs and financial support. Your funds also power research into better treatments, and with your support, our hope is that one day there will be a cure for MS.
Find out more about multiple sclerosis and MS Queensland at www.msqld.org.au.
