Spotlight: Multiple Sclerosis

"MS is a condition underwriters will see fairly often, and it does present some challenges"

clock • 5 min read

Vitality's John Downes examines the history, variations, symptoms and underwriting considerations of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Multiple Sclerosis is a neurological condition affecting the nerves in the brain and spinal cord[i], otherwise known as the central nervous system (CNS). The second part of the name comes from the Greek word ‘skleros' meaning ‘scarring' or ‘hardening' and multiple indicates that it can occur in several places. In the UK, 130,000 people are living with MS with about 130 new cases being diagnosed each week[ii]. When it comes to who is most likely to have MS, it's much more commonly found in women and those in regions furthest from the Equator[iii].  While it's not thought to be heredita...

To continue reading this article...

Join COVER for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, key trend analysis and industry insights.
  • Stay on top of the latest developments around health and wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and the cost of living crisis.
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletter.
  • Members only access to monthly programme 'The COVER Review'
  • Be the first to hear about our CPD accredited events and awards programmes.

Join now

 

Already a Cover member?

Login

More on Underwriting

Zurich personal protection and IP added to UnderwriteMe platform

Zurich personal protection and IP added to UnderwriteMe platform

Eighth insurer to offer ‘Buy Now’ option

Cameron Roberts
clock 28 August 2026 • 1 min read
Guardian reduces underwriting wait times

Guardian reduces underwriting wait times

Less than one-day average in Q2 2026

Cameron Roberts
clock 27 August 2026 • 2 min read
The COVER Review: claims, vulnerable customers, CPD

The COVER Review: claims, vulnerable customers, CPD

Week commencing 15 June 2026

COVER
clock 22 June 2026 • 1 min read