Common Causes Of White Matter Disease

Smoking

There are multiple studies indicating smoking can increase an individual's chance of developing white matter disease, especially as they get older. One reason for this may be that smoking greatly increases an individual's risk of developing heart disease, which in turn increases their chances of neurological issues. In one study, twenty-three percent of smokers had signs of white matter disease progression. Those who smoked more had a higher risk of developing the disease than those who smoked less. This means if an individual reduces the amount they smoke, even if they don't fully quit, they will lower their risk of developing white matter disease. With that said, the best way to avoid the many health risks associated with smoking is to stop smoking fully.

Continue reading to discover additional risk factors for white matter disease now.