MS stands for Multiple Sclerosis an unpredictable and mysterious disease of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord)

Our central nervous system contains nerve fibres that help send information to and from different parts of our body. A substance called myelin coats the nerve fibres, like insulation around an electric cable.

The healthy body's immune system normally defends the body from attack by viruses or bacteria. However, in the case of MS, the body's immune system attacks its own myelin, causing disruption to messages being sent to and from the brain.

The myelin becomes scarred and the damaged areas are called "sclerosis". As they appear in "multiple" places within the central nervous system, the disease is called Multiple Sclerosis.

Some facts about MS:

• It affects over 16,000 Australians and more than 2,500,000 people around the world.
• Most common in young adults.
• Usually diagnosed between 20 and 50 years of age.
• Almost three times as many women as men have MS. • It is more common in cooler climates.
• MS is not contagious.
• Symptoms can be mild or severe and come and go unpredictably.
• It affects each person differently.
• The cause and cure of MS is unknown.

Visit the Kids Zone ‘What Is MS?’ section to see our child-friendly explanation of MS, along with an MS activity and quiz.

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