Early Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis Shows Promise in Slowing Disease Progression, Study Finds

Starting treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) soon after experiencing the first symptoms of the disease may significantly slow its progression, according to a recent study published in the journal Neurology. The study found that individuals who initiated treatment quickly were 45 percent less likely to advance to moderate disability in the next decade compared to those who delayed treatment.

The researchers defined moderate disability as still being able to walk unassisted but experiencing mild to moderate issues with motor function, vision, or thinking skills. The study emphasized the importance of early treatment for MS, with one researcher stating, “When it comes to MS treatment, the earlier the better.”

MS is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. This immune response damages the myelin, a substance that insulates and protects nerves, leading to a disruption in the transmission of messages between the brain and the body. Symptoms of MS can include vision problems, muscle weakness, tremors, numbness, fatigue, walking and balance issues, among others.

While there is currently no cure for MS, treatment has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms and delay the progression of the disease. The study involved 580 individuals aged 50 and younger, with an average age of 34, who were tracked and tested through magnetic resonance imaging and clinical exams for approximately 11 years.

The study compared three groups: those who started treatment with at least one disease-modifying drug within six months of their initial symptoms, those whose treatment began between six to 16 months after the first symptoms, and those who did not start treatment until more than 16 months had passed since the onset of symptoms.

The results showed that those who started treatment earliest were 60 percent less likely to progress to a more advanced stage of the disease known as secondary progressive MS. Additionally, they were 50 percent more likely than those who delayed treatment to have MS that had not progressed in the year after starting treatment.

This study highlights the importance of early intervention in managing MS and suggests that prompt treatment can significantly impact the course of the disease. The findings provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals and individuals living with MS, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and treatment to improve long-term outcomes.

This article is part of The Post’s “Big Number” series, which examines the statistical aspects of health issues. Additional information and relevant research can be accessed through the provided hyperlinks.

What were the findings of the study published in the journal Neurology regarding the impact of early treatment on the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Recently published in the journal Neurology, a study suggests that starting treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) as soon as the first symptoms appear can significantly slow down the progression of the disease. According to the study, individuals who began treatment promptly were 45 percent less likely to reach moderate disability within the next ten years compared to those who delayed treatment.

The researchers defined moderate disability as the ability to still walk independently but experiencing mild to moderate issues with motor function, vision, or cognitive abilities. The study emphasized the importance of early intervention when it comes to MS, with one researcher highlighting, “The earlier the better” in terms of treatment for the disease.

MS is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.