Episode 5 - Elucidating the Economic Burden of MS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) manifests in various subtypes, with the bulk of disability occurring among individuals with progressive disease. According to Dr. Fred Lublin, the primary drivers of burden in MS are motor dysfunction and cerebellar dysfunction, and there are numerous facets that account for the growing burden of the neurological condition. Dr. Gary Owens noted that the economic burden of MS can really be categorized into 3 phases: Phase 1 is the cost burden associated with initial presentation and the ensuing, intense diagnostic evaluation period; Phase 2 is comprised of diagnosed patients receiving disease-modifying treatments; and Phase 3 consists of patients with progressive disease and the expenditures associated with chronic care.