Triggering Factors Of Multiple Sclerosis Patients In The Gulf Stats Countries

Research Article
Dr. Fayz S. Al-Shahry and Sabbah S. Al-Ahmri
DOI: 
http://dx.doi.org/10.24327/ijrsr.2019.1005.3456
Subject: 
science
KeyWords: 
Multiple Sclerosis, GCC, Preclinical Factors, Lifestyle, Sun-Exposure, Sport, Fast Food, Emotion Stress, Family Conflicts
Abstract: 

The demyelination of the nerves in the central nervous system, called multiple sclerosis (MS), causes a disturbance in functions and is associated with many other symptoms. There is a wellknown geographical zone with a high incidence of MS. This may be related to predisposing factors in that environment or to the lifestyle of individuals who live in that zone. In the last few decades, MS was found to have spread to other zones. within these new zones the causes may be different or the pathogenesis still not yet understood which consequently need further investigation. This study investigates the clinical and pre-clinical factors which may contribute to the incidence and relapse of MS. The study employs a cross-sectional study that uses an electronically distributed survey. Open and closed questions were created to address the possible factors triggering the incidence of MS in GCC countries. The results showed a high incidence among teenagers (29%) as compared to 10% in the literature. The ration of female/male was 2.7: 1 respectively. The results also indicated the following factors: decreased sports activities, poor diet, limited sun exposure, and increased fast food intake. Other predisposing factors were emotional stress, chronic family conflict, abuse, lack of sleep, smoke, and chronic fear. Heat and humidity were found to exacerbate the symptoms in almost 37% of the population. Conclusion: The study highlighted aspects which may be considered predisposing factors for MS. Lifestyle and psychosocial corrections are necessary to protect new generations in the GCC from MS and other neurogenic and autoimmune diseases.