21-04-2021
As most people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are in their twenties and thirties, MS is often described as a young person's condition. However, new figures confirm that this is not the case.
The study in 2020 by the Neurology Dementia Intelligence team at Public Health England discovered that 75% of people with MS are between 40 and 74, with the highest prevalence between 60-69.
MS is a disease affecting the central nervous system - the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Over 130,000 people are living with MS in the UK. It is, unfortunately, a life-long condition, but it is not fatal, infectious or contagious.
There is a wide range of possible symptoms, but everyone's MS is different, and no two people will have the same experience. Symptoms can include:
Unfortunately, life with MS can be challenging, especially in addition to the effects of ageing with common age-related conditions like arthritis, reduced memory, high blood pressure and heart problems. Sometimes it can be difficult to separate MS symptoms and what is due to age.
However, if you are struggling with MS, you don't need to suffer alone. There is support available to you here.
Sources:
Multiple sclerosis: prevalence, incidence and smoking status - data briefing - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
MS Awareness week April 19 - 25 2021 | MS Trust
