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Updated: Mar 20, 2026
A Method of Trigonometric Modelling of Seasonal Variation Demonstrated with Multiple Sclerosis Relapse Data
Published on: December 9, 2015
Association between seasonal factors and multiple sclerosis
Abdulla Watad1,2, Shir Azrielant3,4, Alessandra Soriano5
1Department of Medicine 'B', Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, 52621, Tel Aviv, Israel. watad.abdulla@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system. MS is causing progressive and relapsing neurological disability, due to demyelination and axonal damage. The etiopathogenesis of MS is poorly understood. A number of environmental factors have been previously suggested, including: month of birth, vitamin D levels, smoking and viral infections. Previous studies assessing seasonal variation of relapses in multiple sclerosis have had conflicting results. The aim of this review is to assess the association between seasonal factors and MS, in terms of disease onset, relapses and activity.
Insights
This review examines how seasonal factors, like birth month and vitamin D levels, may influence multiple sclerosis (MS) onset and relapses. Understanding these environmental links is crucial for managing MS progression.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Environmental Medicine
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic central nervous system inflammatory disease.
- MS leads to progressive neurological disability via demyelination and axonal damage.
- The precise causes of MS remain unclear, with environmental factors implicated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between seasonal factors and multiple sclerosis (MS).
- To investigate the impact of season of birth on MS onset.
- To evaluate seasonal variations in MS relapses and disease activity.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review.
- Analysis of studies on environmental influences in MS.
- Synthesis of data regarding seasonal variations in MS epidemiology.
Main Results:
- Conflicting results exist regarding seasonal variation in MS relapses.
- Potential links between month of birth and MS onset warrant further investigation.
- Seasonal factors may influence MS disease activity.
Conclusions:
- Seasonal variations may play a role in multiple sclerosis onset and progression.
- Further research is needed to clarify the impact of environmental factors like season of birth.
- Understanding these associations can inform MS management strategies.
