Geographical Heterogeneity of Multiple Sclerosis Prevalence in France

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epidemiology
• Spatial Analysis

Background:

• Geographical variations in multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence are debated, impacting healthcare system planning.
• Acknowledging heterogeneity in MS distribution is crucial for adapting care provision.
• This study aimed to investigate MS prevalence differences across French administrative departments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the geographical distribution of multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence in France.
• To identify potential disparities in MS prevalence across different administrative departments.
• To inform healthcare strategies by understanding regional MS burden.

Main Methods:

• Utilized multiple data sources including health insurance, neurologist networks, and hospitalization data.
• Employed a spatial Bayesian approach to estimate MS prevalence.
• Analyzed data from 21 French departments, representing 22% of metropolitan areas, for prevalence on October 31, 2004.

Main Results:

• Age- and sex-standardized MS prevalence varied significantly, from 68.1 in Hautes-Pyrénées to 296.5 per 100,000 in Moselle.
• Northeastern French departments exhibited the highest MS prevalence.
• Considerable variability in prevalence was observed across the studied departments.

Conclusions:

• A spatial Bayesian model combining multiple data sources revealed significant heterogeneity in MS prevalence across French departments.
• Some departments showed higher prevalence than previously reported.
• Factors like population migration, socioeconomic status, and environmental influences are suspected contributors to the observed geographical variations.