James Wolfensohn, former President of the World Bank and a past President of MSIF, says the economic impact of MS highlights the need for a more concerted global response to the disease.

"On World MS Day, we’re reminded of the costs MS imposes on those with the disease, on their families, and on society as a whole. The report shows that loss of employment is the most significant factor in these costs. This is an area where we can make real progress with the cooperation of governments, employers and people affected by MS," said Mr Wolfensohn.

MSIF hopes that the report will be used by people affected by MS, national MS societies and governments to highlight the economic impact of MS and to develop initiatives to improve the quality of life of people affected by MS.

MSIF CEO Peer Baneke said, "MS often affects people when they are in the first decades of their working lives. The cost to society of losing these people permanently from the workforce is enormous."

"There needs to be greater awareness that a diagnosis of MS does not have to mean a lifetime without work. People with MS around the world continue to work and contribute to society but this requires some flexibility on the part of employers, and support from governments," Peer Baneke said.

Read more about the Global Economic Impact of MS


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