Canadian Collaborative Project on Genetic
Susceptibility to MS provides data to study exploring risk
of developing MS for preterm babies
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Medical Update Memo
August 21, 2008
Summary
Preterm birth does not appear to contribute
to development of MS.
Details
Genetic and environmental factors have important
roles in multiple sclerosis (MS) susceptibility.
A clear parent of origin effect has been
shown in several populations, perhaps resulting
from
factors operating during gestation. Preterm
birth (birth at less than 37 weeks gestational
age) has been shown to result in long-term
health problems including impaired neurological
development. Here, in a population-based
cohort, researchers including Dr. Dessa Sadovnik
from
British Columbia, explored whether preterm
birth increases the risk to subsequently
develop MS. 6,585 MS index cases and 2,509
spousal controls
with preterm birth information were identified
from the Canadian Collaborative Project on
Genetic Susceptibility to MS. Rates of individuals
born preterm were compared for index cases
and controls.
There were no significant differences between
cases and controls with respect to preterm
births. 370 (5.6%) MS index cases and 130
(5.2%) spousal controls were born preterm,
p=0.41.
Preterm birth does not appear to contribute
to the later development of MS. Other factors
involved in fetal and early development need
to be explored to elucidate the mechanism
of the increased risk conferred by the apparent
maternal effect. BMC Neurol. 2008 Aug 1;8(1):30.
[Epub ahead of print]
ASK MS Information System Code: 2.2.s
National Client Services
Medical Information and Education
Offert en
français.
Disclaimer
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is an independent, voluntary health
agency and does not approve, endorse or recommend any specific product or therapy,
but provides information to assist individuals in making their own decisions.
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