Summary: Investigators have reported two apparent multiple sclerosis “clusters” (numbers of MS cases exceeding what would be expected) occurring within the populations of DePue, Illinois and El Paso, Texas. Both studies occurred at sites near former metal smelters known to have contaminated the air and soil in their communities. These studies present interesting data on MS clusters, but it is not possible to conclude with certainty that metals exposure, or any other factor, led to …showed first 75 words of 1168 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1168 total…concerns or questions about an MS cluster in their community is the local (town, city, or state) public health department. Public health officials are primed to hear about, and to investigate, suspected clusters. They may also refer such cases to the federal Centers for Disease Control’s ATSDR. Consumers may contact this agency directly by calling toll-free 1-888-422-8737, email ATSDRIC@cdc.gov, or by visiting its website at http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/.