The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America Publishes New Resources

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America is pleased to announce three new resources for the multiple sclerosis (MS) community. These new publications are available free-of-charge as both printed and online versions on mymsaa.org.

MSAA’s award-winning magazine, The Motivator, provides valuable information and support for individuals living with MS, their care partners, family members, and medical professionals. The newest edition of The Motivator features the cover story, “Disease Effects and Needs of Minority Populations with MS.” This story offers new findings on diagnosis, symptoms, disease course, treatment response, and access to care for minority populations living with MS. Other features in this edition include MSAA’s “Ask the Doctor” column, updates on MSAA’s programs and fundraising initiatives, and an inspirational story by a member of the MS community.

The 2017 edition of the MS Research Update offers important information on certain FDA-approved disease-modifying therapies for MS, research findings on many experimental treatments currently in review, and descriptions of exciting new areas of MS research. Included in this year’s update is an extensive overview of the most recent FDA-approved disease-modifying therapy for both relapsing and primary-progressive forms of MS.

The organization’s newest publication, MSAA’s Programs and Ways to Support Our Mission is a brochure that highlights many of MSAA’s free, vital programs and services, as well as opportunities to support the organization. Programs and initiatives highlighted in this brochure include MSAA’s toll-free Helpline, MRI Access Fund, educational programs, as well as MSAA’s 2017 Endurance Events, Swim for MS fundraiser, and tribute gifts.

About MSAA

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is a national nonprofit organization and leading resource for the entire MS community, improving lives today through vital services and support. MSAA provides free programs and services, such as: a Helpline with trained specialists; award-winning publications, including MSAA’s magazine, The Motivator; MSAA’s nationally recognized website (at mymsaa.org), featuring award-winning educational videos and research updates; S.E.A.R.C.H.™ program to assist the MS community with learning about different treatment choices; a mobile phone app, My MS Manager™ (named one of the best multiple sclerosis iPhone & Android apps by Healthline.com); a resource database, My MS Resource Locator®; safety and mobility equipment distribution; cooling accessories for heat-sensitive individuals; educational programs held across the country; MRI funding; My MSAA Community, a peer-to-peer online support forum; a clinical trial search tool; and more. For additional information, please visit www.mymsaa.org or call (800) 532-7667.

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which consists of the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. MS damages or destroys the protective covering (known as myelin) surrounding the nerves of the CNS, and can potentially injure the nerves as well. This damage causes reduced communication between the brain and nerve pathways. Common MS symptoms include visual problems, overwhelming fatigue, difficulty with balance and coordination, depression and cognitive issues, and various levels of impaired mobility. Many experts estimate that 2.5 million people worldwide have been diagnosed with this disease, and most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 50. MS is not contagious and researchers continue to look for both a cause and a cure.