Mortality in Multiple Sclerosis 3 times higher, we know. But the cause of death is surprising…

Mortality in Multiple Sclerosis 3 times higher, we know. But the cause of death is surprising…

New study found that mortality and comorbidities are higher in Multiple Sclerosis patients than in the average population. The study was funded by Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland.

Highlights

Mortality and comorbidity data are limited for patients with MS

Mortality was 2.9-fold higher in the MS cohort versus the non-MS cohort

Several comorbidities were higher in the MS versus non-MS cohort

Focused monitoring of MS may permit intervention to reduce comorbidities/mortality

Leading cause of death in Multiple Sclerosis

Infectious diseases, sepsis

Frequent comorbidities in Multiple Sclerosis

Infectious diseases, sepsis

Diseases of the nervous system

Diseases of the respiratory system

Diseases of the circulatory system

Attempted suicide, suicide

Ischemic stroke

Ulcerative colitis

Cancer

Conclusion

The researchers came to the following conclusions “Early recognition and management of comorbidities may reduce premature mortality and improve quality of life in patients with MS.”