7 - 13 January 2017
These are links to news stories from the last week that may be of interest to people in the UK. The link beneath each item will take you to the original story.
Please note that the MS Trust did not write the original items and does not endorse their content nor any claims made in them.
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Mixed results for cyclophosphamide in SPMS
A study found that people with secondary progressive MS who stuck with cyclophosphamide over two years were 2.7 times less likely to show disability progression than a control group taking an IV steroid. However, half of those taking cyclophosphamide and a third of those taking the steroid dropped out, mostly due to tolerability. If data from all participants was included, the trail showed no difference between treatments
Source: MS News Today
MS Trust link: Cyclophosphamide
MS on TV
Nancy Osborne a character in the Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks has been diagnosed with MS
Source: Metro
MS Trust link: Hollyoaks set to tackle MS storyline
Paleo diet trial results
A small study involving 17 people with MS found that a group following the paleo diet (fish, pasture-raised meats, fruit, veg, no grains, legumes or dairy, limited refined sugar and processed foods) reported better fatigue and quality of life. Exercise capacity and arm function was also better.
Source: MS News Today
MS Trust link: Diet
Review of evidence for cannabis
A review of over 10,000 reports on cannabis use has concluded that it could have a role in treating spasticity in MS and chronic pain. Other medical benefits are inconclusive or unproven. On the negative side, cannabis use can lead to bronchitis and chronic cough and also to increased risk of mental health issues. There was no increased risk for cancers associated with tobacco use.
Source: Guardian
Source: AFP in the Daily Mail
MS Trust link: Cannabis
Review of research in 2016
Highlights from last year chosen by a leading neurologist include radiologically isolated syndrome, oxygen deficiency in lesions, remyelination, ocrelizumab and siponimod.
Source: MSIF
MS Trust link: MS research updates