In 2022–2023, Ashley Kimmel seized this opportunity to explore the role that environmental factors play in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). Ashley conducted a data-based investigation into the effect of latitude (which plays a role in exposure to sunlight, vitamin D and vitamin D efficiency) and altitude (which influences levels of oxygen in the air) on MS cases across 56 countries. By analyzing data from a number of sources, Ashley concluded that varying ranges of latitude caused an increased prevalence of MS per 100,000 people, but varying ranges of altitude didn’t increase the prevalence of MS.

 

Today Ashley is increasing her knowledge of wellness, illness and population-based health as a student in the Health Sciences Program at McMaster University.