Research Update 1/03/2013

 

The Neurology Research Review has published a supplement focussed on Multiple Sclerosis. We would like to thank the Research Review for allowing us to share the supplement.

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Overview - (taken directly from the supplement)

Our understanding of MS, like many areas of neurology, has undergone a revolution driven by neuroimaging and molecular biology. In this review we discuss new thinking on the diagnosis of MS based on MRI findings, and discuss subtypes of neuroinflammation that we are separating off from MS, particularly neuromyelitis optica (NMO).

 

We will also try to bring some clarity to a wave of exciting, complex and expensive treatments that have appeared for MS that will transform the way we think about and manage the condition.

 

Wallace Brownlee has co-edited this review. Wallace has just finished his NZ training as a neurologist and is about to depart for the UK to take up a fellowship in neuroinflammatory disorders. He is part of a new wave of young neurologists taking an active interest in the management of MS and related disorders.

 

We hope you find this special issue interesting and look forward to hearing your comments.

 

Kind Regards,

 

Barry

 

Dr Barry Snow

 

barrysnow@researchreview.co.nz

 

Medical Professionals can subscribe to the quaterly Review via www.researchreview.co.nz

MS Prevalence Study

In 2004 the MS Society signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Health Research Council of New Zealand to share the cost of funding a national MS Prevalence Study. A contract has now been signed between the HRC and Otago University’s Christchurch School of Medicine and Health Sciences who are undertaking the study.

The most recent figures on MS prevalence are 20 years old—thus the true incidence of MS in this country is unknown. Currently, estimates range from 25 to 70 cases per 100,000 New Zealanders, so providing an accurate measure of the incidence of the condition will have significant impact on policies and services affecting people and families affected by MS.

Furthermore, as this study is the first of its type involving a whole country it will provide data of interest worldwide, particularly with regards to possible relationships between MS and latitude, and whether exposure to ultraviolet radiation in childhood may influence the later onset of the condition.

The full study got underway in early 2006. Auckland and Christchurch were the first regions covered in the study, and investigators were to finish their travels throughout the country by the end of 2006. Interim results were released on 7 August 2006. Results of the study were realised on 31 January 2008.

People with MS are being invited to participate via their neurologist or Society Field Officer. If you have NOT been asked to participate, then contact the study group at:

MS Study Group
Otago University - Christchurch School of Medicine
PO Box 4345
CHRISTCHURCH

Phone: 0800 MS STUDY (0800 677 8839)

Or you can contact us for more information.

Read more:
About the MS Prevalence Study 

Prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis in New Zealand

Interim results announced August 2006

Innovative Work to Increase Knowledge and Understanding of Multiple Sclerosis
Speech from Hon. Ruth Dyson, Minister for Disability Issues, 7 August 2006

Press Release