EPCOS and TDK Europe this year donated EUR 25,000 in support of the German Multiple Sclerosis Society (DMSG). DMSG is one of the oldest relief organizations for MS sufferers in Germany. One key project is the MS bazaar in Munich, which, since its inception 45 years ago, has grown to become one of the country's largest charity bazaars to be run on a purely voluntary basis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. The disease damages the nerve fibers that carry signals from the brain via the spinal cord to the rest of the body. Similar to electric cables, these fibers are surrounded by an insulating layer. However, if inflammation occurs inside this protective cover, the transmission of signals from the brain can be disrupted. Patients may find themselves stumbling more often or experience impaired vision, for example.
More than 200,000 MS patients live in Germany, according to figures from the country's Federal Social Insurance Authority (BVA). The global figure is estimated at around 2.5 million people. At the present time, there is no cure for the disease, but it is possible to positively influence its progression. Multiple sclerosis still raises many unanswered questions: The form it takes, the symptoms suffered and the success of therapeutic measures vary very considerably. One thing is for sure, though: Being diagnosed with MS always comes as a shock – and brings with it many far-reaching changes. As time goes on and the disease develops, many patients find themselves unable to hold a job and become dependent on assistance.