##  [Debunking the myths about multiple sclerosis](/stories/debunking-myths-about-multiple-sclerosis "Debunking the myths about multiple sclerosis") 

 [Patient Perspectives](/tags/category/patient-perspectives)

 

 

#  Debunking the myths about multiple sclerosis 

We surveyed 7,000 people in seven countries to find out what they know about multiple sclerosis (MS). Our survey identified several surprising misconceptions.



 

 Oct 06, 2015 

About 2.3 million people around the globe are living with multiple sclerosis (MS), a debilitating disease characterized by damage to the central nervous system.

Over the last decade, our collective understanding of the disease – which impacts the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves – has improved greatly. But results from a recent survey of 7,000 people across seven countries, including nearly 600 people living with MS, show that we still have a long way to go.

Part of our ongoing efforts to raise awareness about MS, the survey focused on finding out what people actually know about the disease. Here are five findings from our survey that might surprise you.

 ![MS misconceptions](/sites/novartis_com/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/2021-08/ms-misconceptions-1.jpg.webp?itok=XT6sQzhq "MS affects men and women equally")

 

 ![MS misconceptions](/sites/novartis_com/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/2021-08/ms-misconceptions-2.jpg.webp?itok=RzNasZf7 "Discussing MS concerns with doctors")

 

 ![MS misconceptions](/sites/novartis_com/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/2021-08/ms-feeling-tired.jpg.webp?itok=knm_YmUz "Feeling tired with MS")

 

 ![MS misconceptions](/sites/novartis_com/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/2021-08/ms-using-wheelchair.jpg.webp?itok=DSISDF3h "Using a wheelchair with MS")

 

 ![MS misconceptions](/sites/novartis_com/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/2021-08/ms-cognitive-problems.jpg.webp?itok=B8xbyVUo "MS and cognitive problems")