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Multiple sclerosis is prevalent in the Zoroastrians (Parsis) of India
Abstract:
Using Schumacher's classification, we determined the prevalence rate of clinically definite multiple sclerosis (MS) in the distinct but tiny Zoroastrian (largely Parsi) community in the adjacent cities of Bombay (latitude, 18.55 degrees) and Poona (Pune). On prevalence day, 16 clinically definite cases of MS were counted, 14 in Bombay and 2 in Poona, from a total Zoroastrian population of 50,053 and 3,399, respectively. The crude prevalence ratio was 26 per 100,000 for Bombay and 58 per 100,000 for Poona. The age-adjusted prevalence ratio for Bombay was 24 per 100,000, with 95% confidence limits of 13.1 to 40.3. These are much higher than the low rates believed to be prevalent in India, and are comparable with those found in parts of Europe and the United States.
Insights
This study investigated multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence in India's Zoroastrian community. Findings reveal significantly higher MS rates in this group compared to general Indian populations.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Prevalence rates of MS vary globally, with generally lower rates reported in South Asia.
- The Zoroastrian (Parsi) community in India presents a unique population for epidemiological studies due to its distinct genetic background and relative isolation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of clinically definite multiple sclerosis (MS) within the Zoroastrian community in Bombay and Poona, India.
- To compare these prevalence rates with those reported in other global populations and the general Indian population.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Schumacher's classification criteria for diagnosing clinically definite multiple sclerosis.
- Conducted a population-based survey on a defined prevalence day within the Zoroastrian community of Bombay and Poona.
- Calculated crude and age-adjusted prevalence ratios per 100,000 individuals.
Main Results:
- Identified 16 cases of clinically definite MS among the surveyed Zoroastrian population.
- Calculated crude prevalence rates of 26 per 100,000 in Bombay and 58 per 100,000 in Poona.
- Reported an age-adjusted prevalence rate of 24 per 100,000 for Bombay, with 95% confidence intervals (13.1–40.3).
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of multiple sclerosis in the Bombay and Poona Zoroastrian community is significantly higher than previously reported rates for India.
- These findings suggest that the Zoroastrian population in India exhibits MS prevalence rates comparable to those observed in parts of Europe and the United States.
- Further research is warranted to explore potential genetic or environmental factors contributing to the elevated MS rates in this community.