Multiple Sclerosis Associated Risk Factors: A Case-Control Study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a significant health concern in Hamadan Province, Iran.
• Existing epidemiological studies in Iran are primarily descriptive.
• This study investigates MS prevalence and risk factors in Hamadan Province.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Hamadan Province.
• To identify demographic, medical, and lifestyle risk factors associated with MS.
• To analyze personality types and their correlation with MS.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 100 MS patients and 100 controls with acute infectious diseases.
• Data collected via checklist for demographics, medical, and family history.
• Friedman-Rosenman questionnaire used for personality assessment; logistic regression for analysis.

Main Results:

• Female gender, younger age (14-29 years), and normal weight were associated with higher MS risk.
• Adjusted odds ratios indicated significant associations for gender, age, and BMI.
• Crude analysis suggested links between MS and breastfeeding, birth season, and smoking, but these were not significant after adjustments.

Conclusions:

• Male gender, obesity/overweight, and older age are associated with a reduced risk of MS.
• Factors like non-smoking, non-exclusive breastfeeding, and autumn birth may influence MS risk but require further investigation.
• Long-term prospective cohort studies are recommended to confirm the effects of potential risk factors on MS.