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- International
- Date change rule:
- Every May 30
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World MS Day, observed every May 30, is a global initiative to raise awareness about Multiple Sclerosis and advocate for those living with the condition. This day provides a crucial platform for sharing stories, promoting research, and fostering solidarity. Learn about the disease, participate in advocacy, and support organizations working towards a cure.
Want to sponsor World MS Day? Learn how
Expected World MS Day Deals
World MS Day primarily focuses on fundraising and awareness rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the National MS Society and the MS International Federation typically launch campaigns encouraging donations, participation in virtual or in-person walks, and advocacy efforts. Pharmaceutical companies such as Biogen, Novartis, and Sanofi may highlight their research initiatives and patient support programs. Many corporate partners offer donation-matching programs or ’round-up at checkout’ opportunities throughout May to support MS research and services. We will update this page with confirmed live campaigns and events as May 30 approaches.
Platform Guide for World MS Day
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #WorldMSDay. Share facts about MS, personal stories, or links to advocacy campaigns to spread awareness.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #WorldMSDay. Join community groups, share event details, and post about local fundraising initiatives.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #WorldMSDay. Post visuals of orange ribbons, share infographics about MS, or highlight personal journeys with the disease.
World MS Day Hero
Dr. Jean-Martin Charcot
History of World MS Day
The first World Multiple Sclerosis Day was celebrated in 2009 by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF). MSIF was officially established in 1967 as an international body that coordinated with national MS organizations belonging to many countries like Turkey, Slovakia, India, and the U.S.
The federation aims to bring light to MS and the scientific research related to it. The theme for this year’s World Multiple Sclerosis Day is ‘Connect.’ This theme, which continues from 2020 through 2022, focuses on bringing the world together by forming a connection with each other as well as the self for the sake of better care. MSIF spends the whole month of May and early June spreading awareness and hope about MS through their themed campaigns.
Around 2.8 million people suffer from MS each year. This disease relates to damaged myelin sheaths that cover the nervous system in the spinal cord and brain. The damaged myelin sheaths become covered in lesions or plaques, and this is where the disease gets its name — ‘multiple sclerosis’ means ‘multiple scars.’ MS’s exact causes remain unknown, but some scientists attribute genetics, infectious agents, and cell dysfunction to the disease’s causes. Symptoms include muscle spasms, speech and swallowing problems, coordination and balance issues, depression, mood swings, and so forth. While there’s no permanent cure for MS, ongoing research relates to treating the symptoms with drugs and neuroprotection strategies.
World MS Day timeline
Scientists identify two separate MS cases from the 13th and 14th centuries, determining that the ‘Viking gene’ may be a factor behind MS diagnosis.
The Multiple Sclerosis International Federation is established to bring together the world MS organizations in order to raise awareness about the disease.
MS is found to be the most common autoimmune central nervous system disorder, with more than 2.5 million people affected worldwide.
It is confirmed that no one set test can accurately detect MS in people as they would have to go through multiple tests for the doctors to even determine the disease.
How Businesses Can Celebrate World MS Day
Local businesses can show their support for World MS Day by organizing fundraising events or offering special promotions that donate a percentage of sales to MS research. Consider hosting an educational seminar in partnership with a local MS chapter, or displaying orange ribbons and informational flyers to raise awareness among customers. Companies can also encourage employees to participate in an MS walk or volunteer for a local advocacy group, fostering a sense of community and corporate social responsibility.
World MS Day FAQs
When is World MS Day?
In 2027, World MS Day is observed on Sunday, May 30, providing a weekend for communities worldwide to unite in support of those affected by Multiple Sclerosis.
How many people are affected by Multiple Sclerosis?
Across the United States, nearly one million people are estimated to be living with MS, highlighting the widespread impact of this chronic condition on individuals and families.
What is the global prevalence of MS?
MS affects people of all ethnicities, but it is most commonly diagnosed in people of European descent. Women are also two to three times more likely to develop MS than men.
What are the common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis?
MS is characterized by damage to the myelin sheath, which protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to a range of neurological symptoms.
How To Observe World MS Day
Support MS survivors
Show solidarity by providing support to MS survivors. Talk to them and treat them just like a normal person. Many studies show that special treatment can be detrimental for patients, including MS patients, as it can take a toll on their self-esteem and mental health.
Participate in MS organizations’ activities
Whether it is a walk, a seminar, a dinner, or any other charity funding event, participate in the activities to further show your support. You will also get to learn more about MS and its related factors.
Spread awareness
One of MSIF’s main goals is to get the world talking about MS. You can do this, too, by spreading awareness about the disease in your social circle. You can use hashtags related to MS on social media and start conversations about the disease, donations, treatments, and research.
5 Facts About The Nervous System That Will Blow Your Mind
Two parts of the nervous system
The nervous system is divided into two parts — one is the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the other is the peripheral nervous system (the rest of the nerves in the body).
Fast neuron cell transmission
The alpha motor neurons, located in the spinal cord, transmit signals at a whopping rate of 268 miles/hour.
Irreplaceable neurons
Neuron cells can often not be repaired or replaced and this is why any damage can be permanent.
More cells than stars in the Milky Way
There are more nerve cells in our brains than there are stars in the Milky Way.
The longest nerve is the sciatic nerve
The longest nerve in the human body is the sciatic nerve, which runs from the spinal cord all the way to the tips of our toes on each foot.
Why We Love World MS Day
It’s a celebration of support
Humans are social animals who need the support of each other to see them through the highs and lows of life. Without us understanding each other’s hardships, it can become extremely difficult to continue. Thus, lending words of encouragement and positive affirmation to each other can do wonders.
It’s a celebration of hope
Today’s medical advancements in all medical fields have led to a significant decrease in mortality rates. Several studies related to MS are ongoing, even now as you read this article. So, hang in there because there’s always hope for a better tomorrow.
It’s a celebration of empathy
The MSIF’s thematic tagline ‘I Connect, We Connect’ calls for a deep understanding of another person’s pain. It also invites dialogue to discuss solutions and better treatment and care for MS survivors.
Social Media Tips for World MS Day
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