JoVE - Journal of Visualized Experiments
JoVE Visualize
Contact Us

The impact of social and environmental factors on triggering multiple sclerosis onset, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective study from Iran

  • 0Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Bmc Neurology +

|

November 20, 2024

|

November 20, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Stressful life events are linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) onset. Economic problems and job loss became more common triggers during the COVID-19 pandemic, while exam stress decreased.

Area Of Science

  • Neurology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory, demyelinating central nervous system disease.
  • Triggers for the initial presentation of MS remain a subject of scientific debate.
  • The study investigates potential triggers of MS onset before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To compare social, environmental, and physical factors potentially contributing to MS onset.
  • To analyze differences in MS triggers between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods.
  • To understand patient-reported factors associated with the first symptoms of MS.

Main Methods

  • A questionnaire was distributed to Iranian MS patients via Sina Hospital and social media.
  • Data collected included demographics, MS disease details, and patient-reported triggers.
  • Patients were categorized into two groups based on diagnosis timing: pre-pandemic and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Results

  • A total of 920 participants were analyzed, with 72.8% being female and a mean age of 35.63 ± 8.1.
  • The most common initial MS symptom shifted from visual (pre-pandemic) to sensory (during pandemic).
  • Stressful life events were the most reported trigger in both groups; however, economic problems and job loss significantly increased post-pandemic, while exam stress decreased.

Conclusions

  • Patients perceive a strong link between stressful life events and MS symptom onset.
  • Societal changes during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as economic hardship and job loss, emerged as significant MS triggers.
  • Managing societal stress may play a role in MS development or delaying its onset.

Keywords:

Related Concept Videos

Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia 01:29

78

Schizophrenia, a complex psychiatric disorder, has been historically misunderstood. Early psychological theories attributed its origins to childhood trauma and unresponsive parenting. However, contemporary research largely rejects these notions, favoring the vulnerability-stress hypothesis. This model proposes that individuals with a genetic predisposition to schizophrenia may develop the disorder following exposure to significant environmental stressors. Notably, studies on high-risk...

Factors Affecting Illness 01:18

4.2K

When a person's physical, emotional, intellectual, social development or spiritual functioning is compromised, this deviation from a healthy normal state is called illness. Illness creates stress that in turn harms individuals. Irritation, anger, denial, hopelessness, and fear are behavioral and emotional changes an individual experiences in the phases of illness. A variety of factors influence a person's health and well-being.
For instance, risk factors are connected to illness,...

Autism Spectrum Disorder 01:19

64

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.

Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection 01:26

11.4K

The hosts' susceptibility to infection depends on several factors. The integrity of the skin and mucous membranes helps protect the body against microbial attacks. When the skin is altered, the chance of infection, limb loss, and even death increases.
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...

Social Anxiety Disorder 01:28

27

Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where one might face humiliation, rejection, embarrassment, or negative evaluation. This disorder leads individuals to avoid activities like casual conversations, public speaking, or seemingly simple tasks such as eating, signing documents, or swimming, in public settings. Its impact extends beyond discomfort, often significantly interfering with daily functioning and quality of life.

Lifestyle Factors and Health 01:20

36

Lifestyle factors play a critical role in maintaining overall health and preventing chronic diseases. Key elements, such as regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and abstinence from smoking, can significantly enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being while reducing the risk of several life-threatening conditions.
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...