Etiology, effects and management of comorbidities in multiple sclerosis: recent advances

Comorbid conditions commonly affect people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Population-based studies indicate that people with MS have an increased incidence of ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, and psychiatric disorders as compared to people without MS. People with MS from underrepresented minority and immigrant groups have higher comorbidity burdens. Comorbidities exert effects throughout the disease course, from symptom onset through diagnosis to the end of life. At the individual level, comorbidity is associated with higher relapse rates, greater physical and cognitive impairments, lower health-related quality of life, and increased mortality. At the level of the health system and society, comorbidity is associated with increased health care utilization, costs and work impairment. A nascent literature suggests that MS affects outcomes from comorbidities. Comorbidity management needs to be integrated into MS care, and this would be facilitated by determining optimal models of care.

Automated summary

Comorbid conditions commonly affect people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and have significant impacts on their disease course and outcomes. Studies have shown that people with MS have higher incidence rates of ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, and psychiatric disorders compared to those without MS. Comorbidities are associated with higher relapse rates, greater physical and cognitive impairments, lower quality of life, and increased mortality among MS patients. Additionally, comorbidity is linked to increased healthcare utilization, costs, and work impairment at the societal level. The management of comorbidities should be integrated into MS care, and optimal care models need to be determined.