Risk Factors Associated with Multiple Sclerosis: A Case-Control Study in Damascus, Syria

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease with complex etiology.
• Identifying risk factors is crucial for prevention and management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate probable risk factors associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Syrian patients residing in Damascus.
• To provide insights into the specific environmental and genetic predispositions within this population.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study was conducted with 140 MS patients and 140 healthy controls in Damascus.
• Data was collected through questionnaires and laboratory tests, with statistical analysis performed using SPSS Version 26.

Main Results:

• Smoking (OR=2.275), family history of MS (OR=3.970), migraine (OR=3.011), and vitamin D deficiency (OR=4.778) were significantly associated with increased MS risk.
• Diabetes, hypertension, appendectomy, tonsillectomy, and being the first-born child were not statistically significant risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Smoking, vitamin D deficiency, family history of MS, and migraine are probable risk factors for multiple sclerosis.
• Recommendations include increased outdoor activity and a healthy diet, particularly for females, to mitigate potential risks.