Multiple Sclerosis and Race: Confronting Inequities

Nearly one million Americans are impacted by multiple sclerosis (MS) -- a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Once believed to be a young, White woman’s disease, research has found that MS is much more common in Black and Hispanic/Latinx people than previously thought — and their experience may differ. Some studies have suggested Black and Hispanic/Latinx people living with MS may experience more severe symptoms and greater physical disability than their White counterparts -- yet they have been historically underdiagnosed and undertreated. Neurologist + MS specialist, Dr. Mitzi Joi Williams and Victoria Reese, Founder of We Are ILL, break down the misconceptions around this debilitating disease and the need for more inclusivity in clinical trials. For more information visit: gene.com/MS