Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease associated with inflammation of the central nervous system in humans that is associated with genetic and environmental factors. Geographical latitude and longitude, life on coastal, and exposure to environmental pollutants are associated with the disease. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between environmental factors with the risk of multiple sclerosis in Isfahan province, Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed the association of radiation, relative humidity, and temperature with the risk of multiple sclerosis in 2000 patients between the years 2001 to 2014 in Isfahan province. The geographical mapping was done using Arc GIS software and statistical analysis was done via SPSS software using logistic regression and correlation coefficient tests. Findings: The 13-year cumulative incidence rate of multiple sclerosis in Isfahan province was estimated 48.26 per 100000 person, 20.97 in men and 76.38 in women. Significant association was observed between the sunlight radiations with the risk of multiple sclerosis; but the average relative humidity and temperature in this area did not show any significant relationship with the risk of multiple sclerosis. Conclusion: Based on the findings, sunlight associated with multiple sclerosis in Isfahan province; but there was no relationship between the average annual temperature and relative humidity. Therefore, it is recommended that studies be done on individual level to investigate this relationship. © 2017, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All Rights Reserved.