NMOSD (neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder) is a designated intractable disease*¹ in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Among those afflicted by NMOSD, 90% are female. In Japan there are about 4,300*² patients. Symptoms vary from patients to patients as the sites of inflammation are different.

A NMOSD awareness event was held on October 24th, which is NMOSD Day. The aim was to deep the understanding of this disease and attract the interest of many people.

Program:

1. Greetings
Ms. Kyoko Nakata, Chairman of MS CABIN, a non-profit organization, for people with MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD

2. Lecture "What kind of disease is NMOSD?"
Dr. Takashi Ohashi, Associate Professor and Division Chief of Neurology
Tokyo Women's Medical University Yachiyo Medical Center

3. Talk & Mini-Concert "Onset of NMOSD and Now "
Ms. Mamiko Sakaida, Soprano / NMOSD patient
https://sakaidamamiko.com/profile/ (Viewed: February 20, 2022)

Chugai will continue its efforts to help NMOSD patients and their families lead better lives and to deepen the understanding of NMOSD among as many people as possible.

Comments from performers:

Ms. Mamiko Sakaida, Soprano / NMOSD patient
I developed NMOSD in 2016 when I was working as a professional soprano singer. I was paralyzed from the chest down for a while, and although I still have various symptoms and sequelae, I have recovered to the point where I can stand on stage and sing. I would be happy if I could bring hope to NMOSD patients and their families through the power of "song" which supported me.

Dr. Takashi Ohashi, Associate Professor and Division Chief of Neurology
Tokyo Women's Medical University Yachiyo Medical Center
In recent years, the pathophysiology of NMOSD has been elucidated, and several therapeutic agents have appeared. In order to maintain good condition, early diagnose and continued appropriate treatment are important. I tried to explain it in an easy-to-understand manner so that everyone can understand NMOSD correctly.

Ms. Kyoko Nakata, Chairman of MS CABIN, a non-profit organization, for people with MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD
I am pleased that such an event was held again this year on NMOSD Day. This disease has many symptoms that are not apparent to those around us and is not yet understood by society. Through these efforts, I hope that social understanding will continue to advance.

*1 Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder is synonymous with neuromyelitis optica, a designated incurable disease
*2 Akiko Tamakoshi: Clinical picture of NMO patients based on a nationwide epidemiological survey: A survey study on immune neurological diseases. 2014: FY2013 Summary Report: 80-90

The video of the event is being released on the official YouTube channel of Chugai Pharmaceutical.
https://youtu.be/5OrBCQFIILo