[Multiple sclerosis in ethnic groups of Bashkortostan Republic]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epidemiology
• Population Genetics

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease with varying prevalence across different populations.
• Understanding ethnic variations in MS incidence is crucial for epidemiological research and public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical presentations and course of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in distinct ethnic groups within the Bashkortostan Republic.
• To compare the prevalence and onset characteristics of MS among Tartars, Bashkirs, Chuvashes, and Russians.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of clinical data from 576 patients diagnosed with MS.
• Comparison of MS prevalence rates between four ethnic groups: Tartars (n=234), Bashkirs (n=80), Chuvashes (n=22), and Russians (n=237).
• Statistical analysis, including chi-squared tests, to determine significant differences in prevalence.

Main Results:

• MS prevalence was significantly lower in Bashkirs compared to Tartars (3 times less) and Russians (2 times less).
• The disease predominantly affected women across all studied ethnic groups.
• Polysymptomatic onset and movement disorders were common initial symptoms regardless of ethnicity.

Conclusions:

• Ethnic disparities in MS prevalence exist within Bashkortostan, with Bashkirs showing the lowest incidence.
• Population isolation and marriage traditions may contribute to the observed differences in MS prevalence among ethnic groups.
• Further research into genetic and environmental factors is warranted to elucidate the reasons behind these ethnic variations.