Turner Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church
Commission on Health
Health Topic and National Observances for March 2009
The Health Topic for March is Multiple Sclerosis:
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis, commonly known as MS is a chronic progressive illness that affects the nerves in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the nervous system. MS is an autoimmune disease which means the body’s immune system targets and attacks itself destroying cells, tissues and organs. There are three forms of this disease, Relapsing-Remitting MS – there are defined relapses with the same amount of recovery in between, this affects 80% of the people with MS, Secondary Progressive MS- which is a more progressive loss of physical and cognitive functions, this occurs within 10 years of the initial diagnosis of MS and Primary Progressive MS- which is a gradual loss of physical and cognitive functions, this type affects about 10% of the people with MS.
What Causes Multiple Sclerosis?
The cause of MS is currently unknown.
How is Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosed?
MS is usually diagnosed after discussion of initial symptoms, medical history and diagnostic testing which consist of an MRI Scan, A Lumbar Puncture, commonly known as a spinal tap and an Evoked Potentials examine which measures various nerve impulses throughout the body.
What are the Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis?
The symptoms of MS consist of inflammation of the optic nerve; loss of muscle strength in the arms and legs, diminished sense of touch, numbness, tingling and a sense of burning or cold in various parts of the body, various kinds of pain in parts of the body, trouble controlling bladder and bowels, sexual dysfunction, problems with balance and coordination, fatigue, cognitive functions, which include memory and speed of thinking and mood changes including periods of depression.
How is Multiple Sclerosis Treated?
MS is a lifelong disease and treatment varies from person to person and is chosen on the basis of effectiveness, ease of use, side effects and safety. Most treatment is shown to slow the progression of physical disability and/or relapses of the disease.
Who has this Disease?
Multiple Sclerosis affects over 400,000 people in the United States and is 2 to 3 times more likely to affect women than men.
National Health Observances for March 2009
Mental Retardation Awareness Month
National Brain Injury Awareness Month
National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
National Endometriosis Awareness Month
National Kidney Month
National Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month
National Nutrition Month
Save Your Vision Month
Workplace Eye Wellness Month
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