Alarming Rise of Multiple Sclerosis Cases in India

Rising Cases of Multiple Sclerosis in India: Why Early Detection Matters

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is no longer a disorder confined to the West. With over two lakh diagnosed cases in India alone and millions affected across the globe, this neurological condition is emerging as a silent yet significant health challenge in our country.

At the ICTRIMS 2025 Conference, held by the Neurology Department of NIMHANS in Bengaluru, experts came together with a strong message: early intervention and high-efficacy treatment are key to changing the future of MS.

What the Experts Said about Alarming Rise of Multiple Sclerosis Cases in India

• Early detection is critical Dr. Jeremy Hobart, Consultant Neurologist from Derriford Hospital, UK, shared that identifying MS early—and starting patients on strong therapies—can slow down progression and delay disability.

• MS affects young adults—especially women Dr. Nethravati from NIMHANS highlighted that MS is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 25 and 35, with women more likely to be affected. She stressed the importance of timely diagnosis, as every delay increases the risk of long-term damage. She also revealed that various neurology departments across India are pooling data for deeper research on how MS manifests in Indian patients.

• A changing lifestyle plays a role Dr. Satish Chandra from Apollo Hospitals pointed out that MS cases are rising not only because of better detection but also due to lifestyle and dietary shifts that mirror Western trends. “While MS cannot be cured, with medications, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes, one can live a healthy and productive life,” he said. He emphasized the need for a multi-disciplinary approach, combining various treatments for best outcomes.

  
  

Why Early Intervention Matters

MS is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the protective covering (myelin) around nerve fibers. This disrupts communication between the brain and body, leading to symptoms that may include:

1. Fatigue and weakness

2. Blurred or double vision

3. Muscle spasms or numbness

4. Memory or concentration issues

5. Mood disorders, including depression

The tricky part? These symptoms may remain invisible for years. Many individuals live undiagnosed until they face relapses or serious disability. By that time, valuable treatment opportunities are often lost.

Early identification, followed by high-efficacy therapies (HETs), can minimize relapses, protect brain function, and maintain quality of life.

India is now at a turning point in how it deals with MS. With collaborative research, better awareness, and a focus on personalized, continuous care, experts believe we can shift the narrative from “living with a disabling disease” to “living well with MS.

While genetics, viruses, and lifestyle factors all contribute to the disorder, experts agree that healthy habits, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management may help reduce its impact.

The message from Bengaluru is clear: MS may be incurable, but with early action and the right therapy, it is definitely manageable.

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