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MS and MS Canada

Multiple Sclerosis Canada – Quebec Division 

Multiple Sclerosis Canada – Quebec Division is an entity of MS Canada and its mission is to support people with MS in the territory of Quebec, in addition to funding research to find the cause of and cure for this disease. 

We have a membership of over 7,000 and are the only national voluntary organization in Canada that supports both MS research and services. Since our founding in 1948, the core support of MS Canada has been from tens of thousands of dedicated individuals, companies and foundations in communities across Canada. We receive almost no funding from government. 

We’re working to ensure that all Canadians affected by MS have access to the best possible care and support services, secure employment and source of income, all while continuing to invest in MS research. By taking a stand on important issues impacting Canadians affected by MS, we work to raise Canadians’ awareness and understanding about these issues, influence government officials, and change public policies to help improve life with MS. 

About multiple sclerosis 

Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the world, with an estimated 90,000 Canadians living with the disease. MS is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Since that includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve, MS can affect vision, memory, balance and mobility. It is considered an episodic disability meaning that the severity and duration of illness and disability can vary and are often followed by periods of wellness. It can also be progressive. 

MS is unpredictable and may cause symptoms such as extreme fatigue, lack of coordination, weakness, tingling, impaired sensation, vision problems, bladder problems, cognitive impairment and mood changes. Its effects can be physical, emotional and financial. Currently, there is no cure, but each day researchers are learning more about what causes MS and are zeroing in on ways to prevent it. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

 

What causes MS? 

Despite decades of research, the cause of MS remains a mystery. The best current evidence suggests that lifestyle, environmental, genetic and biological factors all contribute. All these areas are being actively examined. Studies funded by MS Canada are asking if certain risk factors, such as gender, age, family history or lifestyle habits impact a person’s susceptibility to MS. 

DISCOVER THE VARIOUS RISK FACTORS


Is there a cure for multiple sclerosis? 

No. And that has to change. Even though there is no cure, there are several categories of drugs that doctors can give people diagnosed with MS to slow the progression of the disease or alleviate its symptoms. 

Multiple sclerosis research 

Canada remains at the forefront of MS research around the world. Through generous contributions from donors, corporate sponsors, and fervent fundraisers, MS Canada has invested over $212 million dollars in research since its inception in 1948. This investment has led to significant results for people affected by MS. More specifically, MS Canada funded studies have gone the distance in areas such as imaging, diagnosis, genetics, tissue repair, rehabilitation, and disease-modifying therapies. With each passing year research continues to reveal new knowledge around the cause of MS, as well as the mechanism by which MS impacts the central nervous system. 

Although much progress has been made, many questions regarding MS remain unanswered. As a result, Canadian researchers with diverse scientific backgrounds and expertise are turning their attention to MS and working together to uncover important knowledge and develop treatments that will effectively manage symptoms and slow progression. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE RESEARCH