#187: Aging in multiple sclerosis: relapses, progression and treatment choices with Dr. Yi Chao Foong

Aging in multiple sclerosis brings new questions about relapses, gradual progression and treatment choices. In episode 187, Dr. Yi Chao Foong, an MS neurologist and researcher in Tasmania, explains why fewer relapses do not necessarily mean that MS has stopped changing.

We discuss:

What changes in the aging immune system and what PIRA means. Why late-onset MS needs careful diagnosis and individual treatment decisions. Why stopping treatment can carry risks despite years of stability. How rehabilitation, practical support and social connections can support independence. What future biomarkers might add to treatment monitoring. Explore Dr. Foong's research and listen to episode 49 with Anthony Feinstein on CogeX. Further study links are included in the accompanying blog article.

Links and resources

Read the interview and listen to episode 187 on the blog: https://ms-perspektive.de/en/187-aging-in-ms-yi-chao-foong/ Dr. Yi Chao Foong — MS Australia Aging better with MS — research project Late-onset MS treatment study Ocrelizumab versus interferon/glatiramer acetate in people over 60 DISCOMS trial DOT-MS trial Clinically silent MRI lesions and treatment escalation National Disability Insurance Scheme — Australia Episode 049: CogeX study with Prof. Anthony Feinstein English podcast archive  Twitter / X: @Foongahh Bluesky: @ycfoong.bsky.social LinkedIn: Yi Chao Foong suchen ORCID profile — Dr. Yi Chao Foong University of Tasmania profile and publications Chapters

00:00 Episode introduction

00:45 Introducing Dr. Yi Chao Foong and aging in MS

03:29 Why aging matters

04:36 The aging immune system and PIRA

06:56 Late-onset MS: diagnosis and treatment

08:55 Higher-efficacy treatment in older people

10:53 Stopping treatment: risks and uncertainties