The relationship between smoking and brain structure in patients with multiple sclerosis

Takeaway

  • Smoking in multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with progressive brain volume loss in deep gray and white matter, and was also associated with clinical disability.

Why this matters ?

  • Smoking is a negative prognostic factor in patients with MS. However, the longitudinal relationship between smoking and disease activity is not well understood.

  • Understanding this relationship can assist with patient management to prevent long-term disease progression.