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Throughout history, Black medical professionals have played a critical role in advancing healthcare, often overcoming systemic barriers to provide better treatment and representation for their communities. In the multiple sclerosis field, where disparities in diagnosis and treatment persist, their contributions are especially vital. Drs. Jacqueline F. Rosenthal and Tirisham Gyang, two neurologists, are at the forefront of this effort, working to improve MS care and champion diversity in medicine. Their stories not only highlight their personal journeys but also underscore the need for greater awareness, research, and equitable treatment options for the Black MS community.

A journey of passion and purpose

For Rosenthal and Gyang, the path to medicine was marked by determination and resilience. Rosenthal, a neurologist at the Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute, recalls she always wanted to be a doctor. Her fascination with neurology began during her medical school neuroanatomy classes, but her experience treating

Tirisham Gyang

Jacqueline F. Rosenthal

MS patients cemented her passion. "I enjoy helping my patients navigate this diagnosis," she said. "There is so much we can offer to enhance or maintain their quality of life."

Similarly, Gyang, a neurologist at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, knew she wanted to become a doctor by age 10. Growing up in Nigeria, she lacked medical role models but remained steadfast in her ambition. "I had to navigate an entirely new system when I moved to the United States for college," she said. "Without mentors, it was challenging, but I found people along the way who supported and believed in my potential." 

During her residency, she encountered her first MS patient, which led her to specialize in MS and experimental therapeutics. Today, she splits her time between patient care and clinical research, striving to improve treatment outcomes for people living with MS.

Addressing disparities in MS care

MS has long been thought of as a disease predominantly affecting white individuals. However, recent data suggests the incidence of MS in Black populations is increasing, challenging outdated perceptions. Unfortunately, many healthcare professionals are still catching up to this reality, which contributes to delayed diagnoses and treatment disparities. "The Black MS community still experiences healthcare disparities, including barriers to early and accurate diagnosis and access to highly effective treatments," Rosenthal said. "We must take a multifaceted approach to ensure equal healthcare opportunities."

Gyang echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of awareness and research inclusivity, "For MS research to be truly generalizable, we need more diverse representation in clinical trials. The more diverse our clinical trials and studies, the better understanding we have of MS in different demographic groups."

Representation matters

Both doctors highlight the significant role representation plays in improving healthcare outcomes. For Black patients, seeing a physician who understands their experiences can help alleviate mistrust, a sentiment deeply rooted in historical medical injustices. "Every person's healthcare experience is different, but representation helps dismantle mistrust and promotes better communication," Rosenthal said. "It also reduces bias and fosters a more inclusive medical environment."

Gyang stressed the need for more role models in the field, "For young Black individuals who have never had anyone close to them in medicine, it can be hard to even see it as an option. We need more mentorship and guidance for future generations of Black doctors."

Paving the way for the future

Both physicians remain hopeful about the future of MS care and research. Advances in treatment continue to evolve, and as more underrepresented communities are included in clinical trials, the medical community will gain a better understanding of how MS manifests in diverse populations.

Both doctors offer similar advice to aspiring Black medical professionals – seek mentorship, stay committed, and never give up. "Medicine is a challenging but incredibly rewarding field," Gyang said. “Your presence in the profession will help create change and address disparities."

As the fight against MS continues, the leadership of Black medical professionals such as Rosenthal and Gyang is shaping a more inclusive and equitable healthcare landscape. Their dedication to patient care, research, and mentorship is advancing MS treatment and inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.