Possible Causes of MS
Since there is no definitive cause of multiple sclerosis, researchers have compiled statistics and have formed hypotheses about possible causes.
To begin with, studies have shown that multiple sclerosis is more common in certain areas such as Scotland, Scandinavia and other areas throughout Northern Europe. Studies also show that if a person moves from an area of high risk to an area of low risk after or during adolescence, the person still has the higher risk. This leads researchers to believe that an environmental factor may affect one before puberty. Another piece of evidence as to environmental factors is occasional “epidemics” of multiple sclerosis. For example, multiple sclerosis became common in Denmark after World War II.
Furthermore, statistics show that multiple sclerosis could be related to genetics. Second and third degree relatives are at risk of also having multiple sclerosis and siblings have a 2%-5% chance of getting multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Paolo Zamboni, of Italy, conducted a study that shows the relationship between patients with MS that also have a blockage in their carotid artery. This reduces blood flow to the brain. The medical community has been greatly divided upon this issue and many clinical studies are being conducted to prove the legitimacy of Dr. Zamboni’s study.
To begin with, studies have shown that multiple sclerosis is more common in certain areas such as Scotland, Scandinavia and other areas throughout Northern Europe. Studies also show that if a person moves from an area of high risk to an area of low risk after or during adolescence, the person still has the higher risk. This leads researchers to believe that an environmental factor may affect one before puberty. Another piece of evidence as to environmental factors is occasional “epidemics” of multiple sclerosis. For example, multiple sclerosis became common in Denmark after World War II.
Furthermore, statistics show that multiple sclerosis could be related to genetics. Second and third degree relatives are at risk of also having multiple sclerosis and siblings have a 2%-5% chance of getting multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Paolo Zamboni, of Italy, conducted a study that shows the relationship between patients with MS that also have a blockage in their carotid artery. This reduces blood flow to the brain. The medical community has been greatly divided upon this issue and many clinical studies are being conducted to prove the legitimacy of Dr. Zamboni’s study.