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A Method of Trigonometric Modelling of Seasonal Variation Demonstrated with Multiple Sclerosis Relapse Data
Published on: December 9, 2015
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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.
European Journal of Epidemiology
|May 27, 2016
Summary
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.

