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Researchers Explore Influence of Obesity vs. Age at Puberty as Risk Factors of MS

March 20, 2019

An international team led by researchers at McGill University published results of a study that looked at the potential influence of age at puberty with the risk of developing MS. They used genetic data gathered by the International MS Genetics Consortium and others and examined gene variants that control age at puberty. They found that the higher the age of puberty, the lower the risk for developing MS. Further study determined that this effect was largely due to the influence of obesity, and if obesity was not an added factor, they found that age at puberty was no longer a strong MS risk factor. Could reducing the rates of childhood and adolescent obesity reduce the number of people who develop MS? More research is needed to answer this question.

Read the press release from the American Academy of Neurology
Read the summary (abstract) of the paper published in the journal Neurology

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.

About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.

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