Alcohol and Smoking in MS

Alcohol dependence and smoking were associated with anxiety and depression, according to a study of 949 patients with MS. Researchers found:

• Alcohol dependence was associated with an increased odds ratio of anxiety (OR=1.84) and depression (OR=1.53).

• Smoking was associated with increased odds of anxiety (OR=1.29) and depression (OR=1.37).

• Alcohol dependence was associated with increased incidence of depression but not anxiety.

• Depression was associated with increased incidence of alcohol dependence.

Citation: McKay KA, Tremlett H, Fisk JD, et al. Adverse health behaviours are associated with depression and anxiety in multiple sclerosis: a prospective multisite study. [Published online ahead of print August 5, 2015]. Mult Scler. doi: 10.1177/1352458515599073.