Multiple sclerosis, for those who don't know, is a disease of the nervous system. Like the wiring in your house, your nerves have a coating or insulation. The disease causes the insulation to be eaten away, leading to a breakdown of the nervous system.
The controversial "liberation treatment" was developed by an Italian doctor named Paolo Zamboni. He claims that by opening blocked veins in a patient's neck, it can stop or even reverse effects of the disease.
Dr. Zamboni's assertions have yet to be proven in a rigorous medical trial, and therefore the treatment is not available in Canada under medicare.
Last week. Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall called on other provincial premiers to fund clinical trials in their province.
The other provinces aren't biting. Jerome Kennedy, Newfoundland's health minister, said the province won't fund the treatment until clinical studies prove it is effective and safe.
Until then, people suffering from MS and wanting to undergo the treatment will have to pay out of pocket to fly to countries such as Poland, where private clinics are offering the treatment.
On one hand, people with MS are effectively handed a death sentence. They face a long downward slope towards losing control of their body. Many feel they have little to lose by undergoing the treatment, which is not without its own risks.
On the other hand, there is little more than anecdotal evidence to say that the treatment works. The placebo effect is powerful. Those who report improvements may only be undergoing a minor remission that will not last forever.
The provinces are probably wise to bide their time on this controversial treatment, but Health Canada should quickly and publicly get some clinical trials started so we can put this issue to rest.
reporter@gulfnews.ca
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