10,048 Nigerians are living with multiple sclerosis

No fewer than 10,048 Nigerians are living with multiple sclerosis with only about 80 registered neurologists available to attend to them. Globally, approximately 2.8 million people are living with multiple sclerosis, and 60 per cent of those living with the condition are women.

These figures were announced on Monday, May 30 during activities to mark World Multiple Sclerosis Day 2022.

Multiple sclerosis also called MS is a disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective covering of nerves. In MS, resulting nerve damage disrupts communication between the brain and the body. Multiple sclerosis causes many different symptoms, including vision loss, pain, fatigue and impaired coordination. The symptoms, severity and duration can vary from person to person. Some people may be symptom-free for most of their lives, while others can have severe, chronic symptoms that never go away.

Consultant Neurologist, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Dr. Peter Alabi, and General Manager, Roche Products Nigeria Limited, Dr. Ladi Hameed, during a media sensitisation programme, organised by Roche, said: “In Nigeria, an estimated 10,048 people are living with Multiple Sclerosis, and the diagnosis of the condition remains a stress area, with numerous challenges such as limited access to diagnostic tools, serology testing, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other challenges include low disease awareness amongst the public and limited access to medications required to manage the disease.

“With a population of over 206 million individuals, Nigeria has only about 80 registered neurologists in the country, a disproportionate figure which points to a gross inadequacy of medical specialists with expertise in diagnosing and treating diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.”

Alabi said the disease is not common in Nigeria compared to temperate regions. He said treatment can help, but the condition cannot be cured; requires a medical diagnosis, and lab tests or imaging. The neurologist said physiotherapy and medication that suppress the immune system could help with symptoms and slow disease progression.

Alabi stressed the value of the commemoration in raising awareness, driving acceptance and inclusion, and shifting the public consciousness favourably with regards to the condition.

Providing further enlightenment, Alabi said: “Multiple Sclerosis was believed initially to be a condition found amongst white people, particularly those of Northern European decent. However, in recent times more cases are showing up amongst Blacks and Africans in general.”

He added: “Though the presentation in Africa is fairly recent, the disease can be managed by Neurologists available at any of the teaching hospitals in the country. A neurologist is able to provide a patient with individualised management of the symptoms and slow disease progression; as well as advise on home care and support, depending on the symptoms and signs presented.”

Hameed spoke about Roche’s history and purpose as well as the company’s long-standing role and commitment as a trusted partner in the Nigerian health care system. He also stated that Roche has expanded its therapeutic areas to include Neurosciences with focal diseases such as multiple sclerosis. He also emphasised the need for more concerted efforts to be made in achieving the purpose of World MS Day, highlighting the critical role of relevant stakeholders and partnerships to succeed in delivering better outcomes for MS patients faster.

Hameed said: “Over the years, Roche Products Limited has demonstrated its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system. Understanding MS disease progression and educating the public on basic symptoms will lead to timely referrals to specialists in the hospitals and improve the lives of these patients. In addition, working with Neurologists, the Federal Ministry of Health, diagnostic centres for laboratory testing, imaging, and engaging local patient support groups will address the unique health care system challenges that disrupt access to MS diagnosis and its management.”

Additionally, Roche plans to map the MS patients’ journey by identifying data gaps, and launching clinical trials to understand how MS affects a typical African patient. Roche is also willing to collaborate with stakeholders to develop data registries and analyse these insights as well as work with MS patient groups within the country to reduce the stigma and increase awareness.

World MS Day is typically observed on May 30 each year and the theme for the year 2022 is CONNECTIONS. Established by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) in 2009, World MS Day seeks to unite the global MS community to share stories, raise awareness, and campaign with and for everyone affected by the condition.