As early as 1947 the World Health Organization (WHO) described health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. However, most health care services in the past focused on the treatment of a disease and its symptoms rather than paying attention to the whole person. Fortunately today, health care is shifting from a disease-oriented approach to one centred on the patient’s experience and needs, with issues such as access to health care, independence and empowerment, employment, education and many other elements holding equal weight in assessing an individual’s wellbeing.

With the aid of 15 collaborating centres around the world, WHO developed the WHOQOL- 100 framework. In this, WHO defines Quality of Life as an individual’s perception of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns. It is a broad ranging concept, affected by the person’s physical health, psychological state, level of independence, social relationships and to salient
features of their environment.

The WHOQOL-100 framework was intended as a tool for general use in medical practice, research, audit and policy making.
We are particularly pleased therefore to see that the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) has incorporated the WHOQOL domains into their Principles intended to affect policy, and to improve the lives of people affected by multiple sclerosis.

MSIF is one of the NGOs in official relations with the World Health Organization, and I am in full support of the way MSIF has taken WHO's work another step forward. These Principles provide a comprehensive yet tangible focus for national MS Societies as they develop and implement plans to improve the quality of life of those affected by this life-long disease.


Benedetto Saraceno, MD
Director Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse
World Health Organization