Study links MS to higher dementia risk

People living with multiple sclerosis (MS) may have a higher risk of developing dementia compared with those without MS, according to a large study from Taiwan.

Researchers analysed real world health data and found that dementia was diagnosed more often in people with MS than in those without the condition. After adjusting for factors such as age, sex and other health conditions, people with MS were found to have around a fivefold increased risk.

The higher risk was seen across several types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative forms.

Encouragingly, treatment with disease modifying therapies was linked to a lower risk of developing certain neurodegenerative dementias. The study also found that teriflunomide was associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers say the findings highlight the importance of monitoring cognitive health and ensuring appropriate treatment and overall health management. Further research is needed to better understand the link.

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