Introduction
In recognition of World Multiple Sclerosis Day, Roche Pakistan Limited organized a panel discussion to raise awareness about Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Pakistan. The discussion aimed to highlight the unmet needs of MS patients, particularly in terms of awareness, diagnosis, and government funding support.
Panel Participants
Key Members
- Ms. Hafsa Shamsie: Managing Director, Roche Pakistan
- Dr. Yasir Adnan: Head of Medical, Roche Pakistan
- Dr. Shahid Mustafa: Consultant Neurologist, Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH)
- Dr. Mohammad Wasay: Consultant Neurologist, AKUH
Key Points Discussed
The Global and Local Burden of MS
- Dr. Yasir Adnan: Highlighted that globally, someone is diagnosed with MS every 5 minutes. Over 2.8 million people live with MS worldwide. In Pakistan, although there is no official MS registry, it is estimated that over 10,000 people suffer from the disease.
- Impact on Families and Society: MS not only affects individuals physically and mentally but also places a significant burden on their families and society.
Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment
- Dr. Shahid Mustafa: Stressed the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of MS. Delays in diagnosis can lead to increased disability and social isolation for patients.
- Advocacy for Better Training: Emphasized the need for improved MS training and awareness among healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive accurate information and care.
Challenges and Government Support
- Dr. Mohammad Wasay: Noted that MS primarily affects young people, especially women. Early and effective treatment can reduce disability, but many patients cannot afford the necessary therapy.
- Call for Government Support: Urged the Sindh government to provide financial support for MS treatment to help patients become productive members of society.
Gender and Treatment Accessibility
- Ms. Hafsa Shamsie: Highlighted that MS is more common in women than men, making it crucial to address the health problems of women. She stressed that gender should not be a barrier to treatment, as untreated MS can leave young women wheelchair-bound.
- Roche’s Commitment: Explained that Roche is dedicated to addressing complex health issues and meeting unmet medical needs. Since 2017, Roche’s Patient Support Programme has provided free treatment to over 25,000 patients for various diseases, including MS.
- Need for Collaborative Efforts: Emphasized that the growing burden of MS requires collaborative efforts from the government and other entities to support public health funding for MS patients.
Conclusion
The panel discussion underscored the critical need for increased awareness, early diagnosis, effective treatment, and government support for MS patients in Pakistan. Roche Pakistan remains committed to supporting MS patients through innovative treatments and patient support programs, but emphasizes that collective action is necessary to address the growing challenges posed by MS.
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