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Trends in prevalence and incidence of multiple sclerosis in Bajo Aragón, Spain

Pedro J Modrego1, Miguel A Pina

  • 1Neurology Unit, Hospital de la Seguridad Social de Alcañiz, 44600, Alcañiz, Spain. pmodrego@halc.insalud.es

Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|November 11, 2003
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Spain has increased, but incidence rates have not significantly risen, suggesting better case detection rather than disease spread. Further studies are needed to confirm MS trends.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Spain is recognized as a high-risk area for multiple sclerosis (MS) based on prevalence data.
  • Limited studies exist on the incidence of MS in Spain, necessitating further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if the rising prevalence of MS in Bajo Aragón, northeastern Spain, is associated with a corresponding increase in incidence.
  • To compare current MS incidence and prevalence rates with historical data from 1984-1993.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a prospective register established in 1994 to collect data on probable or definite MS cases.
  • Calculated crude and age-standardized prevalence and incidence rates from 1994-2002 and compared them to retrospective data from 1984-1993.

Main Results:

  • MS prevalence in January 2003 was 75/100,000, a significant increase from 35/100,000 in 1994.
  • The mean annual incidence rate was 4.6/100,000 (1994-2002) compared to 3/100,000 (1984-1993), with a standardized incidence ratio of 1.44 (95% CI: 0.95-2.17).
  • The observed difference in incidence rates between the two periods was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

  • The rise in MS prevalence is more likely attributable to improved case ascertainment methods than a true increase in disease incidence.
  • Further prospective studies with larger populations in Spain are recommended to definitively assess trends in MS frequency.

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