(RxWiki News) Obesity in early adulthood may be linked to an increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS), a new study found.
This study looked at past studies covering thousands of patients to reach its findings.
MS is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system that damages the myelin surrounding the nerves in the spinal cord and brain. It can lead to disability, and its causes are not well-understood.
However, past studies have found a link between obesity and MS risk, the United Kingdom and Canadian researchers behind this study noted. The current study reinforces those past findings.
These researchers found a change in body mass index (BMI) from overweight to obese was linked to a roughly 40 percent increase in the risk of developing MS.
The study authors noted the importance of promoting anti-obesity efforts worldwide.
This study was published recently in PLOS Medicine.
Various research institutions and health organizations funded this research. One study author was a member of PLOS Medicine's editorial board.
