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Published on: December 9, 2015
The epidemiology of multiple sclerosis in the Isle of Man: 2006-2011
S Simpson1, S Mina2, H Morris2
1Menzies Research Institute Tasmania, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
Background:
We sought to determine the prevalence of MS on the Isle of Man in 2006 and 2011, and the incidence and mortality rates over this interval.
Methods:
Cases were identified by hospital medical record review, General Practitioners and the local MS Society. The significance of the change in prevalence over time and the significance of differences in frequencies by sex and place of birth were assessed by Poisson regression.
Results:
The 2006 prevalence was 153.64 per 100,000 persons and the 2011 prevalence was 179.89. The prevalence was higher among females and persons born in the Isle of Man at both time points. The 2006-2011 incidence rate was 6.86 per 100,000 person-years, much higher among females and persons born in the Isle of Man. The prevalence sex ratios in 2006 and 2011, 2.77 and 2.59, respectively, and the incidence sex ratio, 2.19, are similar to others found in the region. The mortality rate over the study period was 2.84 per 100,000 person-years, this solely among persons born overseas.
Conclusions:
This is the first study of MS epidemiology in the Isle of Man, finding this area to be of high prevalence and to have one of the highest incidence rates in the UK region.
Insights
This study reveals a high prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) on the Isle of Man, with increasing rates observed between 2006 and 2011. The findings indicate higher MS incidence among females and local residents.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) epidemiology on the Isle of Man was previously uncharacterized.
- Understanding disease distribution is crucial for resource allocation and healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) on the Isle of Man in 2006 and 2011.
- To calculate MS incidence and mortality rates during this period.
Main Methods:
- Case ascertainment through hospital records, General Practitioners, and the MS Society.
- Statistical analysis using Poisson regression to assess prevalence changes and demographic differences.
- Evaluation of sex and place of birth as potential factors.
Main Results:
- Prevalence increased from 153.64 (2006) to 179.89 (2011) per 100,000 persons.
- Higher prevalence and incidence observed in females and those born on the Isle of Man.
- Incidence rate was 6.86 per 100,000 person-years; mortality rate was 2.84 per 100,000 person-years.
Conclusions:
- The Isle of Man exhibits high Multiple Sclerosis (MS) prevalence.
- MS incidence rates are among the highest recorded in the UK region.
- This study provides the first epidemiological data for MS on the Isle of Man.
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