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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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Heat Exposure and Multiple Sclerosis-A Regional and Temporal Analysis
Gill Chacko1, Sneh Patel2,3, Anat Galor2,3,4
1Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
Summary
Weather fluctuations, particularly temperature variations, are linked to increased multiple sclerosis (MS) clinic visits. These findings suggest environmental factors impact MS symptom exacerbations, especially in certain climate regions.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neurology
- Climatology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a CNS disorder affecting myelination, with heat exacerbating symptoms in 60-80% of patients.
- Limited data exist on ambient meteorological conditions' impact on MS symptom fluctuations.
- Understanding these links is crucial for managing MS, especially with climate change.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine associations between time-lagged meteorological conditions and the risk of a multiple sclerosis (MS) clinic visit.
- To investigate geographical variations in these associations across different US climate zones.
- To inform MS management strategies considering environmental factors.
Main Methods:
- A case-crossover design was used, analyzing data from US veterans (2010-2013).
- Meteorological data (temperature, relative humidity, temperature variation) were time-lagged up to 30 days prior to MS clinic visits.
- Statistical analyses assessed associations at national and regional levels, controlling for various factors.
Main Results:
- A total of 533,066 MS clinic visits were analyzed.
- Temperature variations (SD of temperature) showed the strongest positive association with MS clinic visits (OR = 1.012).
- Associations varied regionally, with the Northeast and Upper Midwest showing significant links, particularly with temperature variations.
Conclusions:
- Ambient temperature variations, not just heat exposure, are significantly associated with increased MS clinic visits.
- These environmental associations vary across climate regions, highlighting the need for localized management strategies.
- Findings have implications for MS patient management amid changing climate patterns and increased heatwaves.
