Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic neurological disease of young Australians, around 70% of whom are women. There is currently no known cause or cure.

The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Queensland, is dedicated to reducing the impact of MS on individuals and their families, and to finding a cure.

Since its establishment in 1957, this not for profit organisation has provided disability and health assistance, undertaken public education and raised funds for research into the cause and eventual cure of multiple sclerosis.

What is multiple sclerosis?

MS is a chronic disease of the central nervous system � the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve. The protective sheath around the nerve fibres, which acts as a kind of insulator, becomes inflamed and damaged.

For reasons which remain a mystery, in MS, the body�s immune system attacks its own protective sheath. Nerve impulses, which are extremely small electric charges, become blocked or dissipated. Messages coming to the brain may be affected as well as those going from the brain to other parts of the body.

The scarring (sclerosis) from the damage, which occurs in several places (multiple), gives the disease its name.

MS is not contagious and is unpredictable and often progressive.

Who Gets MS?

An estimated 2,500,000 people have MS worldwide, with over 18,000 living in Australia.



Multiple Sclerosis Society of Queensland
286 Gladstone Road
Dutton Park, Queensland`  4102
Ph: 1800 287 367
Fax: (07) 3840 0813
Web: http://www.mssociety.com.au/qld/index.htm
Email: [email protected]

ABN: 56 731 473 412       DGR: Endorsed

	Donations to this organisation over $2.00 are tax deductible. *
	Volunteering: Phone (07) 3840 0823 for details OR Email this address [email protected] listing your contact details and how you might be able to help.