Exposure to air pollution may increase risk of developing MS

Long-term exposure to air pollution may increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) while short-term air pollution may worsen MS activity including relapses, lesions and disability progression.

According to a new study, finding a way to reduce air pollution is key to protecting brain health in MS.

‘Long-term air pollution exposure was associated with higher MS risk, and short-term exposure with greater disease severity,’ researchers wrote.

Air pollution is known to have a wide range of adverse health consequences and has been linked to several neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Previous studies have also suggested that air pollution may increase the risk of developing MS and influence the disease’s progression, but this association is less certain.

Results from a recent study showed that long-term exposure to tiny particles of dust, dirt or smoke suspended in the air – was significantly associated with a higher risk of developing MS.

This was true for particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers, which increased the risk of MS by 21%, and for particulate matter smaller than 10 micrometers, which increased the risk by 20%.

Interestingly, long-term exposure to other airbourne chemicals, such as carbon monoxide, sulphury dioxide, and ozone, which are generated mainly by fossil fuel combustion and traffic-related emissions, was not associated with an increased risk.

The same can’t quite be said for short-term though. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide and ozone was also linked with relapse risk whereas exposure to sulphur dioxide and ozone was significantly associated with disability progression.

‘Our study provides strong evidence of the association between air pollution and risk of developing MS and severity of MS including relapses, developing [active lesions], and disability progression,’ the scientists wrote.

While more studies are needed to fully understand the relationship between MS and air pollution, ‘global efforts and policies are needed to reduce and combat air pollution levels to reduce the burden of MS among other neurological and non-neurological diseases,’ the researchers said.

For more information on MS symptoms take a look at our Choices booklet

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