The Transition to Secondary Progressive MS: Meeting the Challenge
February 18, 2020
Some people who are diagnosed with
relapsing-remitting MS will transition to a
secondary progressive (SP) course in which there are fewer or no relapses and a progressive change in neurologic function (accumulation of disability) over time. This can be a time of uncertainty and worry about how MS may change function or affect life plans. Dr. Jiwon Oh discusses the challenges and provides strategies for managing this transition in
an interview posted on Neuro Central.
Patient empowerment is key to this transition, notes Dr. Oh and it is through “a strong patient–physician relationship that is built on open communication” that treatment plans can be optimized to improve the lives of people with MS. In a
recent review, Dr. Oh and colleagues describe strategies that healthcare providers can use to help individuals manage secondary progressive MS. Dr. Oh has high hopes for the field of progressive MS and believes that there will be substantial advancements in our understanding, and subsequently, the ways we treat and monitor progressive MS in the future.
Read about strategies for coping with the transitions to secondary progressive MS
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.
The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.