A groundbreaking registry study from the University of Oulu has revealed a dramatic transformation in Finland's approach to treating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) over the past decade. The research, examining data from 2013 to 2022, highlights significant improvements in both diagnostic speed and treatment strategies.
Accelerated Diagnosis and Treatment Initiation
The study documents a remarkable reduction in MS diagnosis timeframes. While patients in 2013 typically waited ten months from initial symptom onset to diagnosis, current patients receive their diagnosis within five months. This acceleration in diagnostic processes has enabled healthcare providers to initiate treatment significantly earlier in the disease course.
"This study shows that in Finland, the treatment of neurological patients follows international research findings and is implemented accordingly. This benefits Finnish patients," states Principal Investigator Mervi Ryytty from the University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital. "In MS care, delays in treatment could worsen long-term outcomes."
Evolution in Treatment Approaches
A paradigm shift has occurred in treatment protocols. The traditional approach of starting with moderately effective medications and escalating treatment as the disease progresses has given way to a more aggressive strategy. Clinicians now increasingly prescribe highly effective medications that more powerfully modulate the immune system as first-line treatments.
Resilient Healthcare Delivery During Pandemic
Perhaps most notably, the study revealed that even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Finland maintained consistent diagnosis and treatment timelines for MS patients. This achievement underscores the robustness of Finland's healthcare system despite resource constraints and external pressures.
Research Collaboration and Data Utilization
The comprehensive study leveraged data from multiple sources, including the Finnish MS Register, the drug prescription registry of Finnish Insurance Institution (Kela), and the National Care Register for Health Care HILMO. This collaborative effort between the University of Oulu, Novartis Finland Oy, and StellarQ Oy, along with researchers from the Universities of Turku and Helsinki, demonstrates the value of partnership between academic institutions and industry.
"For pharmaceutical companies, as well as other healthcare providers, it is essential to understand how MS treatment in Finland has evolved," notes Elina Jokinen, Medical Manager from Novartis. "This study is an example of how a pharmaceutical company can collaborate with researchers to provide valuable real-world data by leveraging Finland's high-quality registry data."
Disease Impact and Demographics
Multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune condition affecting the central nervous system, predominantly manifests in its relapsing-remitting form. The study data revealed that the average age at diagnosis is 33 years, highlighting the disease's impact on young adults. While the exact cause remains partially unknown, Finland has observed an increasing prevalence of MS cases, emphasizing the importance of efficient diagnosis and treatment protocols.
