As we take our first steps into 2024, let’s take a moment to look back at ten of the biggest MS Australia news stories from 2023.
From the launch of the groundbreaking clinical trial PLATYPUS, the release of the report on the accelerating numbers of MS in Australia, the NDIS review and the latest findings in MS research, these are some of the stories that captured the attention of the MS community in 2023.
1. PLATYPUS: A new clinical trial for progressive MS
MS Australia, together with MSWA, are thrilled to announce a new clinical trial called PLATYPUS. This clinical trial aims to address the unmet need for treatments of progressive MS utilising an exciting new clinical trial design called adaptive clinical trials.
2. Multiple sclerosis rising and accelerating in Australia new data shows
The number of Australians living with multiple sclerosis (MS) is increasing at a significant and accelerating rate.
3. NDIS Interim Review gives cause for concern
MS Australia President Des Graham highlights the pressing issues surrounding the NDIS and, with a little over three months until the NDIS Review hands down the final report, the need for fearless leadership and concrete solutions for a stronger NDIS.
4. New campaign shines light on life-changing MS Nurse Care
MS Australia has launched a new campaign at Parliament House on World MS Day to raise awareness of the crucial role played by MS Nurses.
5. Lived experience experts and researchers come together in Perth for MS Australia’s biennial conference
MS researchers, clinicians, healthcare professionals, and people living with MS met in Perth for the biennial Progress in MS Research Scientific Conference to share the latest in MS and foster connections.
6. Therapeutic protein shows promise in regenerating nerve fibres and myelin repair
Australian researchers have used blood immune cells to deliver a therapeutic protein to pre-clinical models of MS, which shows promise in the treatment of progressive MS.
7. New clues in the hunt for a cure for multiple sclerosis
Scientists identify the first genetic marker for MS severity, opening the door to treatments for long-term disability.
8. Australian researchers develop a highly effective new EBV vaccine
A new vaccine developed by Australian researchers is highly effective against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in laboratory models, strongly supporting ongoing development for use in humans.
9. Do other viruses besides EBV increase the risk of myelin loss?
An Australian study finds that human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) increases the risk of first signs of myelin loss.
10. Examining How Early Relapses Shape MS Disability Progression
MS Australia-funded researchers explored the connection between relapses and disability progression in early-stage MS (ROMS) over 15 years.
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