Progress and Hope for 5 Chronic Health Conditions

Not so long ago, a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or lupus meant lifelong disability, chronic pain and even an early death. But thanks to a flurry of medical advances in recent years, these and other once-debilitating conditions are, or soon may be, tamed by new treatments.

What it is: A gradual, progressive deterioration of the nerve centers in the brain that coordinate movement.

Prevalence (U.S.): 1 million.

New treatments: Early last year the FDA approved Xadago, a tablet that can be added to treatment when standard medications aren’t controlling symptoms. Meanwhile, a diabetes drug may help to address one of the underlying causes of Parkinson’s. While not yet approved for use in Parkinson’s patients, the drug has been shown to decrease tremors in people with Alzheimer’s. Clinical trials are now being designed to test whether the drug is effective for those with Parkinson’s, according to the Michael J. Fox Foundation. 

Prognosis: People with Parkinson’s who do not exhibit dementia have only a one-year lower life expectancy than those who do not have the disease. 

Famous people who have it:  Actor Michael J. Fox, singer Linda Ronstadt. 

What it is: A disorder that affects the nerves that send messages from the extremities to the brain. It’s usually caused by another underlying condition, most often diabetes. It can cause tingling, pain or numbness, usually in the hands and feet.

Prevalence: 20 million.

New treatments: While symptoms can be alleviated with painkillers and other medications, there is currently no treatment that can reverse neuropathy. But there is hope: In a phase-two study at Northwestern University in Chicago, those with diabetic peripheral neuropathy who received two low-dose rounds of a nonviral gene therapy called VM202 reported more than a 50 percent reduction in their symptoms that lasted for months, with virtually no side effects. It also improved their ability to perceive a very light touch. A larger, phase-three study is currently underway.  

Prognosis: While peripheral neuropathy doesn’t usually shorten life span, an underlying condition like diabetes or autoimmune disease can. Sixty to 70 percent of diabetics develop peripheral neuropathy.  

Famous people who have it: Musician Eric Clapton, commentator Glenn Beck. 

Singer Toni Braxton has the chronic autoimmune disease lupus.

Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images

Multiple Sclerosis

What it is: A disease in which the immune system attacks the central nervous system, destroying myelin, the substance that protects nerves in the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve. Patients suffer from pain, fatigue and poor motor function. 

Prevalence: Nearly 1 million.