The researchers believe that multiple sclerosis is a disease caused by Multiple Sclerosis genetics and environmental factors. MS genetics research has brought about the discovery that the differences between individual genes may increase the risk of developing Multiple Sclerosis. For example, a person who has a family member with MS, the disease is more likely to be diagnosed within an immediate family member as well. It seems that the highest percentage of risk is between children, parents, and siblings. So a person who is a twin has a probability of 35 percent to be diagnosed with MS as well. But, a half-brother or sister has only a 5 percent chance of being diagnosed positive with the disease.
Studies have shown a certain group of genes may be a factor in causing MS. The genes on chromosome 6 appear to increase the likelihood that a person will develop Multiple Sclerosis. Apart from this genetic link, certain ethnic groups also tend to be more likely to develop MS than others. People who can trace their genes to those found in the initial group of Vikings tend to make up a large group of patients with MS. But people from the Sami and Lapp population have few cases of MS among their ethnic group. This phenomenon appears in other parts of the world as well.
Multiple Sclerosis on set factors
Scientists believe that there are several factors responsible for the onset of multiple sclerosis, some have to do with the genetic makeup of the individual and others are environmental factors and diseases of the past. The genetic risk factor is there, but is not particularly high. Environmental factors in Multiple Sclerosis are non-infectious and infectious in origin. These factors include vitamin D deficiency, stress, smoking, vaccines, diet, and hormones in the body.
Microbes from past illnesses seem to weigh more than the factor of Multiple Sclerosis genetics being the main causation of MS. Diligent researchers found a strong association between the Epstein-Barr virus, or mono as it is commonly called, and Multiple Sclerosis. A special report said individuals who tested positive for MS also had antibodies from mono present in their body. These were leftover from when the individual’s body fought off the virus earlier in life. This does not mean that every single person with mono will develop MS as well. It simply means that there is a higher risk of developing MS later. MS genetics research will continue until the disease is cured. Data collected from the numerous studies, reports, and surveys have been very valuable and will further the approach to the goal of eradicating MS once and for all.
