Biologic age is more important than chronological age, and both are more important than disease duration for framing the care of aging patients with multiple sclerosis.
NASHVILLE, Tennessee — For the first time, the majority of patients with multiple sclerosis in the United States are, or soon will be, over age 55, a phenomenon that's driving a shift in priorities including the creation of MS aging centers and a push for more clinical trials aimed at this growing patient population.
However, she maintains that independent of disease progression, the impact of aging on MS has been underappreciated. She cited research showing that relative to chronological age, biologic age is more robustly correlated with MS outcomes. "This raises the question of whether biologic age is a driver of MS and whether we can slow the disease trajectory if we slow aging," Graves said. While she acknowledged that genetics play an important role in the aging process, she pointed to evidence showing exposure to toxins and other biological stressors, as well as poor lifestyle choices, such as lack of exercise and smoking, are modifiable aging variables.
"We are the first and, so far, the only research center devoted to the study of aging in MS," said Motl, another participant in the CMSC aging symposium. Motl said he and a colleague have been evaluating specific strategies to meet the varied needs of aging patients with MS with a key focus on physical therapy and preserving function.
Currently, each patient that attends the clinic consults with six different types of providers, including a psychologist, a pharmacist, and a physical therapist — all in a single appointment.
Multiple Sclerosis MS MS - Multiple Sclerosis Disability Ohio Physical Therapy Physiotherapy Biologic Therapy Biologics Alabama California Clinical Research Clinical Trials Clinical Studies Pre-Clinical Trial Double-Blind Study Double-Blind Studies Single-Blind Study Single-Blind Studies Demyelination Demyelinating Exercise Physical Activity Genetics Geriatrics
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