Obesity Linked to Worsening Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A recent study has shed light on the potential impact of obesity on the course of multiple sclerosis (MS). The research, conducted by Dr. Anna Karin Hedström and her team, found a correlation between higher body mass index (BMI) and a faster progression of physical disability in individuals with MS.
The study, which involved a large cohort of participants, revealed that obese individuals with MS experienced a more rapid increase in their Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score over time compared to those with a healthy weight. Thay also showed a faster decline in scores on the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), a measure of cognitive function.
Along with the accelerated physical disability, obese individuals with MS were also found to have a higher risk of experiencing worsening psychological symptoms.
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While the study did not find a significant link between BMI and cognitive decline as measured by the SDMT, both overweight and obese individuals were more likely to develop new lesions in their brain as detected by MRI scans.
Implications for MS Management
these findings highlight the importance of managing weight in individuals with MS. Maintaining a healthy weight may help to slow the progression of the disease and improve overall quality of life. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between obesity and MS, and to develop targeted interventions for individuals who are overweight or obese.
Study Reference
1. Wu J, Alfredsson L, Olsson T, et al. Obesity Affects Disease Activity and progression, Cognitive Functioning, and Quality of Life in People with Multiple Sclerosis. Neurology. 2025;12(1). doi:10.1212/NXI.0000000000200334
## New Study Links Obesity with Worsening MS Symptoms
**[ARCHYDE NEWS]** – A recent study by Dr. Anna Karin Hedström and her team has found a concerning link between obesity and the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS).
The research, which involved a large number of participants, revealed that individuals with MS who were obese experienced a faster decline in physical function as measured by the Expanded disability Status Scale (EDSS). They also showed a faster decline in cognitive function, as measured by the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT).
**“[Quote from Dr. Hedström about the study’s findings and implications for MS management]”** , says Dr. Hedström.
The study also found that obese individuals with MS were at higher risk for developing worsening psychological symptoms.
While the study did not find a direct link between BMI and cognitive decline as measured by the SDMT, both overweight and obese individuals were more likely to develop new brain lesions, as seen on MRI scans.
These findings highlight the crucial role weight management plays in the lives of individuals living with MS. Maintaining a healthy weight may help slow the progression of the disease and improve overall quality of life.
Further research is needed to fully understand the complex interplay between obesity and MS, and to develop targeted interventions for those who are overweight or obese.
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## Obesity and MS: A Conversation
**Q:** What did the recent study by dr. Anna Karin Hedström find about obesity and MS?
**A:** the study found a correlation between higher BMI and a faster progression of physical disability in individuals with MS.
**Q:** How did the researchers measure this progression?
**A:** They used the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) to track changes in physical function over time.
**Q:** Were there any other notable findings related to cognitive function?
**A:** yes, obese individuals with MS also showed a faster decline in scores on the Symbol Digit Modalities test (SDMT), which measures cognitive function.
**Q:** Did the study identify any other potential impacts of obesity on people with MS?
**A:** Yes, obese individuals with MS were also found to have a higher risk of experiencing worsening psychological symptoms.
**Q:** What does this research suggest for managing MS?
**A:** These findings highlight the importance of weight management for individuals with MS. Maintaining a healthy weight may help slow the progression of the disease and improve overall quality of life.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
