There has been a steady rise in autoimmune disease throughout industrialised societies over the last 30 years. Almost 4.5% of the world’s population is affected by one of more than 80 different autoimmune diseases.

To add to these already alarming statistics, recent studies have revealed that the incidence of autoimmune diseases worldwide is increasing at a rate of 19% per year.

While we know that numerous predisposing genetic risk factors have been identified, these only account for a fraction of the overall incidence of autoimmune diseases.

There are studies pointing to a strong influence of environmental and lifestyle factors, but translating this into a meaningful therapeutic model is a challenge, especially under the current, prevailing medical paradigm.

Nevertheless, there are those who have pioneered this field of research and, through their personal and professional endeavours, have made it all but impossible to ignore how profound an impact diet, lifestyle and mindset can have when faced with seemingly intractable conditions.

Dr Terry Wahls is a clinical professor of medicine at the University of Iowa. In 2000, she was diagnosed with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis and from that point, began to steadily decline. Because of her academic medical training, Terry began a research journey that eventually led her to investigate these under-explored factors and from this she developed a treatment plan that would help restore her health. 

Today, Dr Terry Wahls is a teacher and mentor to millions of people around the world who are seeking more effective ways to treat multiple sclerosis and other progressive health problems.

Her story is truly inspirational and we are so fortunate to have Terry share this on the IMH Patient Journeys podcast. 

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