The Framingham cardiovascular risk score in multiple sclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Cardiovascular risk factors are associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) onset and progression.
• These factors may interact, influencing overall cardiovascular risk.
• Understanding this interplay is crucial for managing MS patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare global cardiovascular risk between individuals with and without MS using the Framingham Risk Score (FR).
• To assess the association between FR and MS-related outcomes, including disability and disease severity.

Main Methods:

• Data on age, gender, smoking, BMI, blood pressure, diabetes, and antihypertensive use were collected.
• The 10-year Framingham General Cardiovascular Disease Risk Score (FR) was calculated for all participants.
• Statistical analyses included t-tests and linear regression to compare FR and its relation to MS outcomes.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in FR was found between MS patients and controls.
• Secondary progressive MS patients exhibited significantly higher FR compared to relapsing-remitting MS patients.
• A direct relationship was observed between higher FR and increased MS disability and severity.

Conclusions:

• The Framingham Risk Score, reflecting combined cardiovascular risk factors, is associated with MS disability, severity, and disease course.
• Global cardiovascular health assessment is relevant for understanding MS progression.
• This highlights the importance of managing cardiovascular risk in MS management.