Metalworkers, mechanics, construction workers, and other workers exposed to oil-based lubricants at work are ٣٨% more likely to develop Multiple Sclerosis (MS). These findings come from a large study in Sweden and indicate a direct link between exposure to these substances and an increased likelihood of developing MS.
Hazards from Chemicals in the Workplace
Researchers in this study compared ٢,٩٠٠ newly diagnosed MS patients with ٦,١٠٠ others who showed no symptoms of the disease. All participants lived in Sweden, and their average age was ٣٥ years. The results showed that the likelihood of developing MS increases with higher levels of exposure to chemicals in the workplace, particularly oil-derived lubricants.
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According to this research, nearly ٩% of MS patients had been exposed to these lubricants, while this figure was less than ٧% for those who showed no symptoms of the disease. The most common occupations linked to the risk of MS in this study included metalworkers (٢٣%), construction workers (١٧%), auto mechanics (١١%), and machinery mechanics (١٠%).
The Link Between Smoking and Genetics with MS Risk
Research has shown that smokers and those lacking a protective gene against MS are at greater risk. For example, individuals who smoke due to exposure to lubricants or possess certain genetic variants are more than ٣٣ times more likely to develop MS than others.
“Anna Karin Hedström,” the lead researcher of this study, emphasized the need for a more thorough investigation of chemical exposure in the workplace and stated: “Our findings indicate that exposure to these products at work, especially when combined with smoking or certain genetic traits, is associated with a higher likelihood of developing MS.”
Hedström also added: “Future studies should collect more detailed information about the timing of individuals' exposure to these lubricants and the extent of their exposure in the workplace.”
MS is a degenerative disease in which the immune system attacks the brain and spinal cord, affecting movement and coordination. This disease can impact individuals' daily lives and lead to serious disabilities. Therefore, identifying risk factors and preventing exposure to them can help reduce the incidence of this disease.
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