Cause 5: Smoking – The Self-Imposed Risk
Of all the risk factors for MS, smoking is perhaps the most avoidable. Numerous studies have linked smoking with an increased risk of developing MS, highlighting the significant public health implications of this modifiable risk factor.
The harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke can disrupt the functioning of the immune system, potentially increasing an individual’s vulnerability to MS. Further, among those already diagnosed with MS, smoking has been associated with a more rapid progression of the disease.
The silver lining to this, however, is that smoking cessation appears to reduce this increased risk. Former smokers, particularly those who quit many years ago, seem to have a lower risk of MS compared to current smokers.
Thus, advocating for smoking cessation and providing the necessary support for those attempting to quit smoking could have far-reaching effects. Not only would this reduce the risk of MS, but it would also positively impact overall public health, underscoring the importance of tobacco control efforts. (5)
