Novartis launches new multiple sclerosis online campaign

Novartis has launched a new interactive online campaign in line with today's multiple sclerosis (MS) awareness day, World MS Day, and its commitment to delivering and researching innovative treatments to address the high unmet medical needs of people with MS at every stage of the disease.

The new campaign, called MS and:Our Story, aims to capture real-life inspiring stories of the MS community to further increase awareness. The global pharma company is also participating in initiatives that encourage information and experience exchange around MS, including the launch of its Pinterest page.

"Novartis proudly supports World MS Day, and we recognize and support the importance of creating dialogue amongst people with MS and the wider community to help create an environment of understanding. As a leader in the field of MS, we are not only committed to hosting initiatives that foster this dialogue exchange, but also to ensuring that people with MS have the appropriate care and support to manage their disease."

David Epstein, Head of the Pharmaceuticals Division of Novartis Pharma AG.

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, which causes the body to turn against itself by mistaking normal cells for foreign cells. The exact cause of MS is unknown. It most often affects young people between the ages of 20 and 40.

World MS Day was created in 2009 by the Multiple Sclerosis International Foundation (MSIF), with the aim of raising global awareness of MS and its impact on approximately 2.5 million people with MS around the world.

However, Novartis isn't the only pharma company showing its support to the multiple sclerosis community – Biogen Idec has begun its awareness-building campaign today to inform governments and politicians at the European Union and national level, highlighting the company's support of the 2012 EU Parliament declaration to improve equal access to care for MS patients in Europe.

Additionally, Biogen has dedicated its website's homepage to MSIF to raise awareness for the cause.