Parental Smoking Linked to Increased Multiple Sclerosis Risk

A recent study presented at the Congress of the European Academy of Neurology has found a significant link between exposure to parental smoking and an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) later in life. This article explores the key findings from this multinational case-control study, shedding light on the potential environmental risks associated with parental smoking.

Study Overview

The study, led by Caterina Ferri from S. Anna University Hospital in Ferrara, Italy, examined the relationship between MS in adulthood and various smoking habits, including maternal smoking during pregnancy and parental smoking at an early age. The analysis included participants from three countries:

Canadian Participants: 1,565
Italian Participants: 2,040
Norwegian Participants: 2,674

Key Findings

Maternal Smoking During Pregnancy

The researchers discovered a significant association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and the development of MS:

Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 1.38
95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.12 to 1.71

Maternal Smoking Overall Among Norwegians

For the Norwegian population, there was also a notable link between maternal smoking overall and MS:

Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 1.39
95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.17 to 1.65

Paternal Smoking Among Canadians

In the Canadian cohort, a trend was observed for paternal smoking being associated with MS, though it was not statistically significant:

Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 1.21
95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.97 to 1.51

No Significant Association in Italian Population

Interestingly, the study did not find a significant association between past exposure to parental smoking and MS in the Italian population.

Age of MS Onset and Parental Smoking

The study also investigated whether parental smoking influenced the age at which MS onset occurred. In both the Italian and Norwegian populations, an association was found between exposure to parental smoking and an earlier onset of MS in offspring.

Clinical Implications

Caterina Ferri emphasised the importance of these findings for clinicians and future parents. She noted that while the genetic risks associated with MS are well-known, it is crucial to educate patients about the potential environmental risks as well. Clinicians should take an active role in inquiring about and educating their patients on harmful exposures, particularly focusing on young women and future parents.

Source: PracticeUpdate