A random story on world multiple Sclerosis day 30 May.

 Empowering Lives: Arun Mohan's Journey from Diagnosis to Advocacy for Multiple Sclerosis in Bengaluru

When Arun Mohan, a Bengaluru sales executive, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis over eight years ago, it transformed his life. Today, Arun is dedicated to raising awareness about this chronic neurological disorder as a life wellness coach and a key member of the governing council and executive committee of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI)'s Bengaluru chapter. Multiple sclerosis (MS), where the immune system attacks healthy central nervous system tissue, remains incurable.

MSSI reports that Karnataka has just over 2,000 identified MS patients, though the actual prevalence is unclear, complicating support efforts. Arun highlights the diagnostic challenges, noting his initial misdiagnosis with Parkinson’s, which delayed proper treatment by six months.

MS symptoms can include blurred vision, dizziness, tremors, speech issues, bladder problems, stiffness in the lower limbs, and motor difficulties. Diagnosis typically involves an MRI of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve, and sometimes a lumbar puncture to test cerebrospinal fluid, explains senior neurologist Dr. Rajesh B Iyer.

Despite a lower incidence compared to other neurological disorders like migraines or strokes, Dr. Iyer has managed nearly 500 MS cases over 20 years, noting an increase likely due to better diagnostics and resource access. Environmental factors play a significant role in MS, although genetic links remain unproven.

Without early diagnosis and treatment, approximately 50% of MS patients may become disabled and reliant on wheelchairs within 15 years. Moreover, health insurance does not cover MS treatment costs, which can range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 1 lakh per month. The 2024 state budget provides some relief, offering a Rs 1,000 monthly allowance to caregivers of MS patients.

This year’s World Multiple Sclerosis Day on May 30 focuses on the theme of early diagnosis, under the tagline 'Navigating MS Together,' highlighting the critical need for prompt detection and management of the disease.

Disability rights activist Ravi Ganeshan from the Fourth Wave Foundation calls for a comprehensive statewide survey to update data on disabilities, which hasn’t been refreshed since the 2011 Census. State Commissioner for Persons with Disability, Karnataka, Das Suryavamshi, supports this initiative, seeking collaboration with private hospitals for free MS treatment.

Arun Mohan’s journey underscores the importance of awareness, early diagnosis, and support for those living with multiple sclerosis, aiming to improve lives and foster a more inclusive society.