Environmental Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis: A Case-control Study in Kerman, Iran

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Environmental Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) etiology involves complex environmental risk factors.
• Previous research shows conflicting results regarding environmental influences on MS.
• This study investigates specific environmental and lifestyle factors associated with MS in Iran.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify environmental and lifestyle risk factors for multiple sclerosis (MS).
• To analyze the association between dietary patterns, early life nutrition, and MS risk.
• To explore the role of vitamin D supplementation in MS development.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case-control study involving 120 MS patients and 360 healthy controls.
• Data collected via questionnaires on personal information and environmental factors.
• Statistical analysis using descriptive and inferential methods.

Main Results:

• Vegetarian diets (OR: 14.46) and animal-based diets (OR: 11.74) were linked to increased MS risk.
• Vitamin D supplementation showed a positive association with MS risk (OR: 2.27).
• Infant consumption of cow's milk was associated with a reduced risk of MS (OR: 0.33).

Conclusions:

• Cow's milk consumption in infancy and avoiding strict vegetarian or animal-only diets may reduce MS risk.
• The observed negative association of vitamin D supplementation warrants further investigation.
• Lifestyle modifications may play a role in mitigating MS risk in the studied population.