Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic degenerative disease of the central nervous system where there is a loss of the protective covering of the nerve (called demyelination of the nerve). This condition causes the nervous system to “short circuit”, which in turn causes an MS attack, which can last from 3-12 weeks before clearing. The symptoms of these attacks historically start with the optic nerve causing blurring and double vision. Other symptoms are weakness, numbness, light-headedness, and incontinence. Persistent symptoms are caused by the accumulated burden of multiple attacks. Two-thirds of cases diagnosed occur between the ages of 20-40, and is twice as common in women.
The cause of MS is not known, but growing evidence suggests that it may be a result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunologic factors. First-degree relatives of someone with MS face a 3-5% risk of developing MS themselves, and it is shown to be likely that a viral infection initiates the MS process, followed by an autoimmune response in a genetically predisposed host.
At this point, there is no cure for MS. Overall, MS is a progressive disorder 85% of the time. The remaining 15% have “benign MS” which is slowly progressive with no disability 10 years after diagnosis. The median survival rate is 35 years after diagnosis.
If you or a loved one is living with Multiple Sclerosis and life insurance is something you are interested in, be ready to answer these questions. For a good preliminary offer, underwriters will want to know several things:
■ When was it first diagnosed?
■ How many episodes (attacks) have occurred and what is the date of the last episode?
■ Is the client taking any medications?
■ What is the current neurologic status: normal, minimal residual impairment, moderate residual impairment, or severe residual impairment?
■ Has the client smoked cigarettes in the last 12 months? What offer can be expected?
Assuming a diagnosis has been made, typically it is best to postpone underwriting within the first year of diagnosis. Living with Multiple Sclerosis and life insurance coverage are possible. When you are ready, please contact us.