Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
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A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop multiple sclerosis (MS) with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing MS. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.
Risk factors for MS include:
Medical Conditions
A viral infection may trigger MS. Researchers have been investigating a type of herpes virus, human herpes virus-6, and Epstein-Barr virus. Some medical experts believe that it is the way certain people respond to the virus that may trigger MS.
People who have an isolated attack of optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve) have a high risk of developing MS.
Age
Risk appears to be greatest between the ages of 16 and 40. This is when most people with MS are diagnosed.
Gender
At younger ages, women tend to be diagnosed with MS more frequently than men. However, the gender ratio is more equally balanced in people who develop MS later in life.
Genetic Factors
There may be a genetic component to MS, and sometimes it occurs in families. Researchers suspect more than one gene may be involved.
Ethnic Background
MS is more common in people of Northern European descent, especially people who are of Scandinavian background.
Other Factors
Other factors that may increase your risk of MS include:
References:
Ebers GC. Environmental factors and MS. Lancet Neurology . 2008;7(3):268-277.
Multiple sclerosis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php. Updated March 2010. Accessed March 17, 2010.
Multiple sclerosis. National Library of Medicine, MedlinePlus website. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/multiplesclerosis.html. Updated March 2010. Accessed March 12, 201.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society website. Available at: http://nationalmssociety.org/.
Last reviewed March 2010 by J. Thomas Megerian, MD, PhD, FAAP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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