From Table Tennis to Tobacco: A Week in MS Advancements. MS News Round UP, Week of July 31 - Aug 6

In this week's comprehensive MS news digest, we begin with the uplifting journey of Dr. Antonio Barbera, who discovered therapeutic benefits in table tennis after his MS diagnosis. The spotlight then shifts to Genentech's pioneering strides in MS treatment, offering hope to many. Octave Bioscience's significant funding and its implications for precision MS care is another highlight. From South Africa, we unravel potential underestimations of MS cases, providing a fresh perspective on global MS data. The safety of the drug Copaxone during breastfeeding takes center stage in a vital segment, followed by an exploration of the societal challenges faced by Kristin Kliphuis, an MS patient wrongly accused of DUI. We conclude with a thought-provoking piece on the potential benefits of oral tobacco for MS progression. This round-up offers a blend of hope, innovation, and awareness for the MS community.

Show Notes: Weekly MS News Round-Up, Week of July 31st - Aug 6th

1. Ping Pong Therapy: Dr. Antonio Barbera transforms his MS journey by leveraging the therapeutic benefits of table tennis. His initiative, the "Neuropong Program", has now expanded across four states.  https://www.denver7.com/news/positive-news/former-doctor-with-multiple-sclerosis-goes-from-prescribing-medications-to-playing-ping-pong 
2. Promising MS Treatment: Genentech's new subcutaneous form of ocrelizumab offers a shorter, more convenient treatment process for both relapsing and primary progressive multiple sclerosis patients. - https://www.clinicaltrialsarena.com/comment/phase-iii-trial-ocrevus/
3. Precision Care Revolution: Octave Bioscience secures significant funding to advance their precision care for MS and other neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on personalizing patient care and improving treatment outcomes. - https://www.healio.com/news/neurology/20230731/octave-bioscience-gets-30m-to-advance-ms-neurodegenerative-treatment-platform
4. Spotlight on South Africa: Experts discuss potential underestimations of MS diagnoses in South Africa, emphasizing the importance of awareness and early professional treatment. - https://www.news24.com/citypress/news/a-study-for-multiple-sclerosis-might-be-an-underestimate-for-sa-cases-experts-20230801
5. Safety First: A recent study provides reassuring evidence on the safety of the drug Copaxone for mothers with MS who are breastfeeding.  - https://www.managedhealthcareexecutive.com/view/new-study-finds-copaxone-safe-to-use-while-breastfeeding
6. Societal Misconceptions: The story of Kristin Kliphuis, an MS and Lupus patient, offers a glimpse into the misunderstandings and challenges that those with MS can face in everyday situations. - https://bocanewsnow.com/2023/08/01/why-did-pbso-charge-woman-suffering-from-multiple-sclerosis-lupus-with-dui/
7. Oral Tobacco Findings: Research from the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm reveals a potential link between oral tobacco use and slower MS progression, introducing new discussions on nicotine replacement therapy for those diagnosed with MS. - https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/995075?form=fpf

The Just MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Show, w host Justin Loizos, is a podcast that connects, educates and tries to uplift others living with multiple sclerosis. It provides real-life stories, interviews, and information about DMTs (disease modification therapies) and updates on research developments.

www.justmultiplesclerosis.com