Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Increased Risk of Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in JAMA Neurology examined the association between vitamin D deficiency and the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). The study analyzed data from 75,000 participants across 20 studies, investigating the link between serum vitamin D levels and MS risk. The findings revealed a significant association between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of developing MS. Individuals with lower vitamin D levels had a 43% higher risk of developing MS compared to those with sufficient levels of the vitamin. Vitamin D is known to play a crucial role in immune function and is obtained mainly through sunlight exposure and diet. The results of this study highlight the potential importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels in preventing the onset of MS. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and explore potential therapeutic interventions that target vitamin D deficiency as a preventive strategy for MS.