PATIENTS with multiple sclerosis (MS) may experience a slightly increased risk of developing cancer compared to the general population, according to a new nationwide French study spanning 10 years. Researchers analyzed data from over 140,000 MS patients and 560,000 matched controls, revealing nuanced variations in cancer risk by age, sex, and cancer type.
The study found that cancer incidence was 799 per 100,000 person-years among patients with MS, compared to 736 per 100,000 in the control group. While the overall cancer risk increase was modest (HR 1.06), notable differences emerged for specific cancers. Patients showed a higher risk of bladder (HR 1.71), brain (HR 1.68), and cervical (HR 1.24) cancers but lower risks for prostate (HR 0.80), breast (HR 0.91), and colorectal (HR 0.90) cancers.
Age played a critical role in cancer trends. Patients with MS under 55 faced a 20% increased cancer risk (HR 1.20), while those 65 and older had a decreased risk (HR 0.89). Researchers suggest these patterns may reflect generational differences in health practices, with younger MS patients receiving more frequent medical monitoring.
Notably, patients were less likely to participate in cancer screenings, particularly for breast, colorectal, and cervical cancers. The gap was most pronounced in patients aged 65 and older, raising concerns about underdiagnosis in this population.
The findings highlight the need for tailored cancer screening and preventative care for MS patients, addressing both age-related and disease-specific risk factors.
Reference: Pierret C et al. Cancer risk among patients with multiple sclerosis. Neurology. 2024;103(9).
