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Updated: Nov 3, 2025
A Method of Trigonometric Modelling of Seasonal Variation Demonstrated with Multiple Sclerosis Relapse Data
Published on: December 9, 2015
Fine Particulate Matter Related to Multiple Sclerosis Relapse in Young Patients
Edouard Januel1, Boris Dessimond2, Augustin Colette3
1Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, APHP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, Neurology Department, Paris, France.
Abstract:
Objective: Particulate matter (PM) of aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 μm (PM10) has been associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse. However, the impact of smaller PM with a greater ability to penetrate human organism has never been assessed. We evaluated the impact of PM smaller than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) on the risk of MS relapse. Material and Methods: In a case-crossover study, we included 2,109 consecutive hospitalizations likely due to MS relapse in day hospital in 5 MS centers in the Paris area from January 2009 to December 2013. For each hospitalization, the natural logarithm of the average weekly PM2.5 concentrations (μg/m3) at the patient's residence address during each of the 6 weeks (week[0] to week[-5]) preceding admission was compared with the concentration during the previous week, using a conditional logistic regression adjusted on temperature, flu-like syndrome rate, pollen count, and holiday period. Results: PM2.5 average concentration during week[-3] was significantly associated with the risk of hospitalization for MS relapse [OR = 1.21 (CI 1.01;1.46)]. The association was stronger in patients younger than 30 years [OR=1.77 (CI 1.10; 2.83)]. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates an association between exposure to PM2.5 and MS relapse, particularly in young people.
Insights
Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is linked to increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse, especially in individuals under 30. This study highlights the health impact of air pollution on MS patients.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Particulate matter (PM10) is linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse.
- The impact of finer PM2.5 on MS relapse risk remains unassessed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the association between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure and the risk of MS relapse.
Main Methods:
- A case-crossover study design.
- Involved 2,109 hospitalizations for MS relapse across 5 Paris MS centers (2009-2013).
- Used conditional logistic regression to compare weekly PM2.5 concentrations preceding hospitalization with controls, adjusting for environmental and seasonal factors.
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between PM2.5 concentration in the third week prior to admission and MS relapse risk (OR = 1.21).
- This association was more pronounced in patients younger than 30 years (OR = 1.77).
Conclusions:
- Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure is associated with an increased risk of multiple sclerosis relapse.
- Younger individuals (<30 years) appear particularly vulnerable to PM2.5 exposure concerning MS relapse.
