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First

msaa

"The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is pleased to be
the beneficiary of Cote's Carnival. This event is a great way to promote
the needs of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their
families. We appreciate all of the time Riley Cote, Drew Miller and the
volunteers have dedicated to this event. On behalf of the MS community,
I extend our heartfelt thanks."

Douglas G. Franklin
President and CEO
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America

about
The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is a national nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to enriching the quality of life for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). MSAA offers ongoing support and direct services to people with MS and their families throughout the country. MSAA also serves to promote greater understanding of multiple sclerosis and the diverse needs and challenges of people with MS.

MSAA offers programs and services including a toll-free Helpline (800-532-7667); support groups; equipment ranging from grab bars to wheelchairs; MRI funding and insurance advocacy; educational literature including a quarterly magazine, The Motivator; regional events and activities; MSi technology program featuring educational videos; Lending Library; cooling program for heat-sensitive individuals; and more

whatis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological disorder diagnosed in young adults. Its causes are not yet fully understood and researchers continue to search for answers. MS is not contagious and does not shorten the life expectancy of those who are diagnosed with the disease. Although the disease may not be cured or prevented at this time, treatments are available to reduce severity and delay progression.

MS is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS consists of the brain, optic nerves and spinal cord. This disorder damages the protective insulation (known as "myelin") surrounding the nerves (known as "axons"), and may also damage theses nerves within the CNS. As a result, nerve impulses carrying messages from the brain and spinal cord may short circuit, causing reduced or lost bodily function.

The effects of MS differ with each individual. Some people experience symptoms for a short period of time and afterward may remain symptom-free for periods or months or years. While others may experience a more steady progression of the disease.

Most researchers believe MS is an "autoimmune disease" -- one in which white blood cells, meant to fight infection or disease, are misguided to target and attack the body's own cells. This attack causes inflammation in the CNS, which may damage the myelin and ultimately injure the nerves.

Areas of inflammation are known as “lesions” or “plaques.” The changes in size, number, and location of these lesions may determine the type and severity of symptoms. Frequently, however, MS may be “clinically silent,” showing no increase in symptoms while continuing to show signs of disease activity within the CNS.

Additionally, areas of thick scar tissue may eventually form along the areas of damaged myelin. The term “multiple sclerosis” originates from the discovery of these hardened plaques. Multiple refers to many; sclerosis refers to scars.

Researchers have studied a variety of possible causes for MS, and a combination of factors appears to be involved. A popular theory looks at commonly known slow-acting viruses (one that could remain dormant for many years), such as measles, herpes, human T-cell lymphoma, and Epstein-Barr. After being exposed to one of these viruses, some researchers theorize that MS may develop in genetically susceptible people. Research to identify the specific genes involved in MS is also ongoing.

Some scientists are looking for a connection between MS and nutritional factors, including fat intake, as well as deficiencies in fish oil and vitamin D. In addition to food and supplements, vitamin D is also derived from sunlight, which may be involved in the development of MS. As noted in the following section, populations living closer to the equator (and exposed to more sunlight) experience a lower incidence of MS.

For more on MS, visit this site: http://www.msassociation.org/about_multiple_sclerosis/whatisms/