ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) has launched national guidelines for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients in the UAE. Developed by a dedicated scientific task force comprising members of the society's Medical Advisory Committee, the guidelines aim to provide the best medical support for people living with MS in the UAE.
The treatment guidelines were formulated after an in-depth study based on the best available global evidence, which examined the unique characteristics of the MS community in the UAE, and wide variations of health coverage and patient preferences.
The overall goal is to ensure the most appropriate treatments are provided to the largest number of MS patients in the UAE while addressing data gaps which could impact their health insurance coverage. This medical resource also includes guidance on treatment choices during pregnancy and lactation, as well as pediatric MS, which can support treatment of a wider population.
Her Excellency Dr Fatima Al Kaabi, Vice Chair of NMSS, said: "The MS treatment guidelines are based on the best global evidence currently available and bring a lot of hope for people newly diagnosed with MS and those living with the condition.
These guidelines, the first in the UAE, include detailed guidance for physicians on MS-modifying therapies and aim to help doctors determine the most appropriate treatment course for the largest number of patients, thus contributing to improved care for people with MS. The guidelines will enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of treatments by reducing side effects and improving the accuracy of prescriptions.
"Developing the MS treatment guidelines is a pioneering effort and their deployment by healthcare authorities will expedite their utilisation by specialists nationwide. These guidelines shed light on recent treatment trends, such as using stem cells when patients do not respond to MS-modifying therapies. They will be constantly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest medical research and clinical breakthroughs."
NMSS has developed the MS treatment guidelines through a strategic and collaborative approach involving various health authorities in the UAE, while prominent neurologists from all emirates have reviewed the guidelines.
Dr Ahmed Shatila, Consultant Neurologist at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City and Chair of the Medical Advisory Committee of the NMSS, who led the MS Guidelines task force, said: “The development of the MS treatment guidelines by NMSS marks a significant step forward in the UAE’s healthcare landscape. With the support of leading neurologists, our Medical Advisory Committee has worked tirelessly to ensure these guidelines reflect the latest global advancements in MS care. We are proud of this collaborative effort, which will greatly enhance the quality of treatment for MS patients in the UAE."
In parallel with the release of these guidelines, NMSS recently introduced the first MS Helpline in the UAE to further enhance the support ecosystem for the MS community. The initiative was designed to provide people living with MS with direct access to essential resources, referrals, and guidance on clinics with MS specialists, enabling them to navigate their care journey with confidence.
Accessible by dialing 800 677, the helpline is available from 10am to 10pm, seven days a week.
The MS treatment guidelines have been published in the Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders journal, an international journal supported by key researchers from all neuroscience domains that focus on MS and associated conditions.