(HEALTHLINE) — A recent study published online in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more at the time of a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) were twice as likely to reach disability within six years, no matter what treatment they received.
- According to a new study, people who are overweight with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more when diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) have an increased risk of disability.
- The onset of disability was also accelerated for people with a BMI of 30 or more.
- Experts note that many treatments associated with MS, as well as decreased mobility, can impact a person’s eating habits and weight.
Obesity, the researchers indicated, is a modifiable risk factor. Losing weight and reaching a healthy weight can improve clinical outcomes.
More than a thousand people were followed for the study and there are several other factors that can make changes to the outcome.
Read the full report here.