Identifying Risk Factors for the Rising Prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis in Saudi Arabia: A case-control analysis

This study aims to identify risk factors linked to the increasing prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Saudi Arabia. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune condition affecting the central nervous system, marked by inflammation and damage to nerves and the myelin sheath.

A case-control study conducted from September 2022 to January 2024 included 832 participants-263 diagnosed with MS and 569 controls. Controls were matched by age, gender, residence, and employment status. Data was collected using a validated questionnaire, with written consent obtained from participants aged 18 and older. Logistic regression analysis was used to ascertain risk factors.

Out of 832 participants, 263 (31.6%) were diagnosed with MS. The greatest percentage of MS cases occurred in the 25-34 age range (37.7%). After adjusting for potential confounders, smoking was significantly associated with increased MS risk (AOR = 2.34, 95% CI: [1.22-4.48], p = 0.01), as were vitamin D deficiency (AOR = 1.97, 95% CI: [1.31-2.98], p<0.00), and a history of childhood sexual abuse (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI: [1.11-3.45], p = 0.02). Conversely, vitamin D supplementation was associated with a substantial reduction in MS risk (AOR = 0.17, 95% CI: [0.10-0.28], p < 0.001), as was coffee consumption (AOR = 0.53, 95% CI: [0.30-0.96], p < 0.04).

Smoking, vitamin D deficiency, and a history of childhood sexual abuse increase MS risk, while vitamin D supplementation and coffee consumption reduce it. Further research is essential to confirm these findings.