48 msfocusmagazine.org Medicine & Research Study: Research pinpoints possible MS biomarker AnewstudyledbytheUniversityofSydney’s Brain and Mind Centre and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital has revealed unique molecules in the blood of people with multiple sclerosis that could become definitive diagnostic biomarkers of the world's most common neurologic disability in young adults. The findings were published in Scientific Reports. Dr. Thrower: In spite of medical advances in the diagnosis and treatment of MS, there still remain delays in making the diagnosis and errors in making the correct diagnosis. In the U.S., we have 16 FDA-approved treatment options with more on the way. It is crucial that we make the diagnosis of MS quickly and accurately. Some studies have shown that 5 to 10 percent of MS diagnoses are incorrect. This could lead to unnecessary treatment and side effects, and may also lead to getting the correct problem appropriately treated. Let’s hope that our Australian colleagues have continued success in developing a blood test to aid in the diagnosis of MS. Study: 1 million people in U.S. have MS Preliminary results from a new study identified nearly 1 million people living with MS in the United States. This is more than twice the previously reported number, which was a result of a 1975 national study. The study was presented at the seventh joint ECTRIMS-ACTRIMS meeting in Paris. Dr. Thrower: Glory hallelujah! We have some updated numbers. I finished my neurology training in 1992 and we have been using that same “400,000” number since then. Most everyone knew the number was outdated and incorrect, and this new figure of 1 million people in the U.S. living with MS is much welcome and long overdue. Order Your Copy of RISE UP AGAINST MS Your Guide to the SIMPLE EVENT that Anyone and Everyone Can Do Call Rob Beasley at 800-225-6495 ®