There is a lower than expected number of cancer cases in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients compared to the general population, according to a recent study. In addition, MS patients with a personal history of cancer were more likely to report disease modifying therapies (DMT) use suggesting that DMTs may abrogate the lower incidence of cancer in MS. Cancer, DMT use, and family history of cancer were assessed using the New York State Multiple Sclerosis Consortium (NYSMSC) registry. Self-reported cancers in MS patients were tested for associations with DMT use, family history of cancer, and other factors. Researchers found:

• The prevalence of cancer in males and females in the NYSMSC cohort was lower than expected.
• Patients with cancer were older at MS diagnosis and more likely to be female.
• MS patients with a personal history of cancer were more likely to report DMT use and family history of cancer.