The first Middle East and North Africa Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis- MENACTRIMS came to a close following two days of scientific discussions and teaching courses related to the latest updates in Multiple Sclerosis. The meeting was attended by more than 500 delegates and a number of international experts showcasing the new findings on diagnosis, treatment algorithms and individualized care for patients with MS.

Based on recent scientific publications and epidemiological studies, the MENA region is one geographic area that has witnessed significant increase in both prevalence and incidence of MS.

As a result of the collaboration between Genpharm and Genzyme in the field of MS in the region and our long-term commitment to support research across the Middle East, we are delighted to launch the ASPIRE MS Research Grant under the patronage of MENACTRIMS.

Professor Bassem Yammout, Professor of Clinical Neurology, Director Multiple Sclerosis Center Clinical Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut – Lebanon stated that  “The ASPIRE grant aims at encouraging clinical research in the field of multiple sclerosis all over the Arab world. It fits in the overall vision of our newly founded association (The Middle East and North Africa Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis: MENACTRIMS), which aims at increasing awareness and knowledge of the disease among the neurologists community of the region. The ASPIRE grant will, by providing research funds, promote this knowledge and increase our overall research potential in the MENA region”.

The aim of this Annual scientific grant is to support regional research by young clinical researchers working in the area. The independent MENACTRIMS Scientific Committee will supervise the review and award processes. Research areas that will be funded through the ASPIRE Grant include; MS risk factors, epidemiology, natural history and other relevant topics to clinical practice in the MENA region.

Professor Mohamed Al Jumah, Consultant Neurologist at King Fahad National Guard Hospital, Vice President, Planning and Development, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh – Saudi Arabia believes that “The ASPIRE Grant is a great innovation that will have strong impact on the progress of Multiple Sclerosis research in the region. Through it’s funds, it will help more young researchers to reach new findings & understanding about MS which will help improve the life of MS patients in MENA”

For any enquiries you can contact us at info@aspiremsgrant.com