MS Affects Women Three Times More: Unique Symptoms, Outcomes
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affects individuals uniquely, with women being three times more likely to develop the condition. The disease's impact on health and well-being varies between sexes, with women often experiencing different symptoms and outcomes.
MS is most commonly diagnosed in women in their 20s, 30s, or 40s. While both sexes can experience sexual dysfunction, with rates ranging from 50-90% in men and 40-80% in women, the manifestations differ. Women may face worsening symptoms during menstruation, after pregnancy, and menopause due to fluctuating hormone levels.
Pregnancy can exacerbate MS symptoms and increase the risk of mood disorders. However, women with MS tend to have slower cognitive decline and higher survival rates. They also report higher health-related quality of life, though this varies among studies. Men, on the other hand, experience faster progression and more severe symptoms.
Recent research by psychologist Omar Hahad from Universitätsmedizin Mainz explores biological and social factors affecting stress responses in women and men with neurological conditions, potentially influencing disease management.
MS's impact on health and well-being varies greatly between men and women. While women are more likely to develop the condition and experience unique symptom fluctuations, they also tend to have better long-term outcomes. Further research, such as that by Omar Hahad, is crucial to understand and address these gender differences in MS.
