MS research update - 23 April 2010
New theory on how sunlight influences MS risk
Research into the association between exposure to sunlight and risk of developing MS has largely focused on the action of vitamin D and the influence it exerts on the immune system. This article proposes a new theory with particular focus on how sunlight modifies the antigens that trigger the autoimmune response in MS, and how it may influence levels of vitamin A and melatonin levels during immune development.
The authors conclude that while vitamin D has been linked to the development of MS, it may not be the only sunlight-mediated effect on MS. They suggest that further investigation into the role of vitamin A and melatonin in MS is warranted.
Mehta BK.
New hypotheses on sunlight and the geographic variability of multiple sclerosis prevalence
Journal of the Neurological Sciences 2010; 292(1-2):5-10.
Medline abstract
Factors that influence ability to maintain employment
Research has shown that people with MS have a lower rate of employment than the general population. The present study investigates whether certain clinical characteristics (symptoms at onset) and demographic characteristics (age at MS onset, type of work, and gender) influence the likelihood of discontinuing employment on the grounds of ill health.
The study was based on the records of 2,240 Danish people with probable or definite MS. People who experienced sensory symptoms (such as tingling or numbness) at onset of MS and were in non-physical occupations were more likely to maintain employment than people who experienced motor symptoms (such as muscle weakness) at onset, had a higher age at onset, and were in physical occupations.
This study offers further insight into the challenges that people with MS face in maintaining employment.
Pfleger CC, Flachs EM, Koch-Henriksen N, et al.
Social consequences of multiple sclerosis: clinical and demographic predictors - a historical prospective cohort study.
European Journal of Neurology 2010 [Epub ahead of print]
Medline abstract