February 16, 2011
People with higher vitamin D levels may be less likely to develop multiple sclerosis.
Previous studies have shown people living close to the equator are less likely to get MS than those at higher latitudes.
Scientists say that the difference may be explained by more sun exposure and higher vitamin d levels.
Australian researchers studied more than 600 adults. Some had the first signs of multiple sclerosis, others had no sign of the disease.
Participants were asked how much time they spent in the sun and also had the vitamin D levels in their blood checked.
On average people with the first signs of multiple sclerosis had less sun exposure and lower vitamin D levels than those who had no sign of the illness.