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Prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Korea
1Department of Neurology, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea.
Neurology
|October 20, 2010
Summary
This study estimates multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence in Korea using nationwide data. The prevalence was found to be 3.5-3.6 per 100,000, with a slight female predominance.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease.
- Estimating the prevalence of MS in Korea is crucial for public health planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct the first nationwide survey to estimate the prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Korea.
- To utilize national health insurance and mortality data for a comprehensive prevalence estimation.
Main Methods:
- A nationwide survey of MS cases from 2000-2005 using data from 38 major hospitals.
- Validation of MS diagnoses using McDonald criteria and evaluation of hospital diagnostic validity.
- Application of novel statistical methods, including stratification and linear regression, to adjust National Health Insurance (NHI) data.
Main Results:
- The estimated prevalence of MS in Korea was 3.5-3.6 cases per 100,000 individuals.
- Two statistical methods yielded similar estimates: 1,681 cases (stratification) and 1,640 cases (linear regression).
- The female-to-male ratio for MS prevalence was estimated at 1.26.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first nationwide prevalence estimate of MS in Korea using complementary national databases.
- The findings indicate an increasing trend in MS prevalence, aligning with observations in neighboring Asian countries.
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