Cancer risk lower in people with MS

Via MSology.ca:

A Canadian study by researchers at the University of British Columbia reports that the overall risk of cancer in people with M

S is lower than in the general population (Kingwell and colleagues. Brain 2012; epublished June 21, 2012).

The researchers compared cancer statistics from people in the UBC MS clinic database and general stats from the provincial cancer registry. Overall, people with MS had a 14% lower risk of cancer compared to people in the general population. The risk was particularly low for colorectal cancer (44% lower risk).

However, people with MS who did develop a cancer had larger tumours than expected, suggesting that they had not been diagnosed early enough. It’s an important reminder – for doctors as well as people with MS – not to focus exclusively on MS and neglect general health issues. People with MS still need to visit their family doctor for an annual check-up, and to see their doctor for any non-MS related health problems.