Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.

MS is two to three times more common in women than men, but why? What factors increase women’s risk of multiple sclerosis? In this article, we will explore some of the possible reasons.

1. Hormonal factors

One of the possible explanations for the gender disparity in MS is hormonal factors. Hormones could play a role in MS onset and progression.

Some studies suggest that sex hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone may influence an individual’s immune response and increase their risk of developing MS.

Estrogen is known to have neuroprotective properties that can help repair damage to nerve cells, while the lack of estrogen can lead to an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Similarly, progesterone is also found to have immunomodulatory effects that could influence immune cell function. However, the role of hormones in MS is complex, and more research is needed to understand how they are implicated in the disease.

2. Genetic factors

MS is not a hereditary disease; however, genes make up a part of the risk factor. Women who have a first-degree relative with MS are at a higher risk of developing the disease than those without any family history.

The risk in these cases is still relatively low, around 2-5%, but it is higher than the general population’s risk.

Several genes have been linked to MS development. These genes are involved in immune system functioning, the production of myelin, and vitamin D metabolism.

Some genetic variations could affect a person’s immune system’s responsiveness to specific environmental factors like viruses, bacteria, or cigarette smoke, triggering an autoimmune response that leads to MS symptoms.

3. Environmental factors

Environmental factors may also contribute to the increased risk of MS in women. Different environmental factors can lead to an MS attack, but the cause-and-effect relationship is not well understood in some cases.

Some potential environmental risk factors linked to MS in women include:.

Viruses – Certain viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), have been shown to increase the risk of developing MS significantly.
Smoking – Studies have found that women who smoke are at a higher risk of developing MS than those who do not smoke. Pregnant women exposed to cigarette smoke are also at a higher risk of having children who develop MS later in life.
Vitamin D deficiency – Being deficient in vitamin D during pregnancy and early life has been linked to an increased risk of MS.
Stress – High levels of stress and trauma are thought to increase MS risk.

4. Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle factors have also been implicated in MS onset and progression. Women who lead a sedentary lifestyle and are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing MS than those who exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.

A balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables is essential for overall health and wellbeing.

A diet high in saturated fat, refined sugar or low in nutrients can increase inflammation and weaken the immune system; however, no specific diet has been shown to prevent or cure MS.

5. Age factors

MS often develops between the ages of 20 and 40, which coincides with women’s childbearing years. Pregnancy affects a woman’s immune system, and hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect MS’s progression.

While pregnancy may reduce the risk of an MS relapse, the risk of relapse increases in the first three to six months after giving birth.

6. Socioeconomic factors

There is a significant correlation between MS and socioeconomic status and education level. Studies suggest that women in lower socioeconomic groups may have a higher risk of developing MS.

The risk may be due to factors like diet, limited access to healthcare, and exposure to environmental toxins. Education and socioeconomic status can impact access to healthcare, stress levels, and other lifestyle factors.

7. Geography factors

MS is more common in certain regions of the world, particularly in temperate climates located farther from the equator. The prevalence of MS is higher in women in northern Europe, Canada, and the US compared to women living in Africa and Asia.

Some hypothesize that sunlight and vitamin D levels may be a factor, but the link between sunlight, vitamin D, and MS is complex and not fully understood.

8. Ethnicity factors

MS is more commonly diagnosed in white women than any other ethnicity. African and Asian women have a lower risk of developing MS. However, the disease is still underdiagnosed among women of color and needs further research.

9. Contraceptive factors

The use of hormonal contraceptives may affect MS risk in women. Contraceptive drugs contain hormones, and sometimes hormone fluctuations could lead to MS symptoms.

Some studies suggest that women using hormonal contraception have a higher risk of developing MS; however, the link has not been well-established.

10. Menopause factors

Menopause is a hormonal change in women’s bodies that can impact MS. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, MS progression can accelerate, and the risk of relapse may increase.

Hormone replacement therapy may help to manage MS symptoms, but more research is needed to confirm the benefits and potential risks.

Conclusion

Multiple sclerosis is a complex disease that affects women more frequently than men. Hormonal, genetic, environmental, lifestyle, age, socioeconomic, and other factors can contribute to increased MS risk in women.

While we still have a long way to go in understanding all the factors at play in MS development, early diagnosis and effective management are key to mitigating the disease’s impact.