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Published on: February 19, 2021
Multiple sclerosis in the Arabian Gulf countries: a consensus statement
Saeed Bohlega1, Jihad Inshasi, Abdel Rahman Al Tahan
1King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, boholega@kfshrc.edu.sa.
Abstract:
The epidemiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) is rapidly changing in many parts of the world. Based on the Kurtzke classification, the Arabian Gulf Region is located in a low-risk zone for MS; however, recent studies suggest a moderate-to-high prevalence nearby (31-55 MS per 10,0000 individuals), with an increase in incidence in recent years. The relapsing-remitting disease course ratio is 2.5:1 versus the primary progressive type. In a geographic area that was previously associated with low prevalence; the recent high prevalence and fast rising incidence of MS in the gulf countries, encouraged the neurologists of this region to meet in a consensus panel, in order to share our latest findings in terms of MS epidemiology and consent on MS management in the Arabian Gulf. Therefore 20 key opinion leader neurologists and MS experts representing various countries of the Arabian Gulf have met in Dubai on the 2 and 3 February 2012, they shared their latest epidemiological findings, discussed recent MS aspects in the region, and consented on MS management relevantly to this geographic area.
Insights
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) prevalence is rising in the Arabian Gulf, shifting from a previously low-risk zone. Neurologists convened to discuss epidemiology and establish regional management guidelines for this evolving neurological condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The Arabian Gulf Region was historically considered low-risk for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) based on the Kurtzke classification.
- Recent data indicate a shift, with moderate-to-high MS prevalence (31-55 per 10,0000) and increasing incidence in the region.
- The relapsing-remitting MS course is more common than the primary progressive type, with a ratio of 2.5:1.
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