Unfortunately, people with MS aren't exempt from other health conditions. The occurrence of two or more chronic conditions at the same time is called comorbidity. A systematic review conducted by the International Advisory Committee on Clinical Trials in MS determined that the five most common comorbidities in people with MS were depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and chronic lung disease. Other research supports these findings, suggesting vascular problems like high blood pressure and heart disease and mood disorders like depression and anxiety often occur alongside MS. Obesity is another comorbidity that often impacts people with MS, sometimes exacerbating symptoms of the disease. In addition to comorbidities, there are other health concerns specific to women with MS. Many women report that their MS symptoms seem to worsen around the time of their menstrual period, and the onset of menopause may also intensify symptoms of MS.