Can someone develop MS if they are from Mexican heritage, grew up in the desert climate of the Southwest part of the US, and have no family history of MS?
People of Mexican heritage, even without a family history of MS and growing up in the generally very warm climate of the Southwest, can develop MS. There is a lot of research showing that people who grow up in a colder climate and in northern latitudes are at a somewhat greater risk of developing MS. However, while growing up in a hot, desert climate reduces your risk it does not prevent someone from developing MS. MS occurs in people who are genetically predisposed to developing it and there are multiple genes that must come together to make someone genetically predisposed. Researchers estimate that there are probably at least 10 genes that might influence the risk of getting MS. Currently, researchers have identified one of these genes called DR2. Research continues in this very important area of the influence of genetics on MS. Though those of northern European descent have the greatest risk of developing MS, the disease is found in virtually all racial and ethnic groups.
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