The epidemiology of alcohol consumption and multiple sclerosis: a review

Alcohol consumption is accounted for a large proportion in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and may be a modifiable lifestyle factor that affects the risk of developing the disease. The epidemiological studies about the association between MS and alcohol consumption have got corresponding studies during the last decade. It has been suggested that alcohol consumption was associated with mood disorders, disability and even onset of MS, but a common theme is lacking. To make an understanding of the effect of alcohol consumption on MS, the related epidemiological evidence and potential mechanisms are reviewed.