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Exploring the variability in Behçet's disease prevalence: a meta-analytical approach
Carla Maldini1, Katie Druce2, Neil Basu2
1Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Saint-Louis, Paris, France.
Rheumatology (Oxford, England)
|March 25, 2017
Summary
Geographic variations in Behçet's disease (BD) prevalence may stem from study methods. This meta-analysis found that survey design significantly impacts BD prevalence estimates, highlighting the need for consistent methodologies in Behçet's disease research.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Epidemiology
- Medical Research Methodology
Background:
- Behçet's disease (BD) exhibits notable geographic variations in prevalence.
- Methodological inconsistencies in prevalence surveys may contribute to observed geographic differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of geographic location on Behçet's disease prevalence.
- To analyze how study methodology influences the estimated prevalence of BD.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search and handsearching for population-based prevalence surveys of BD.
- Meta-analysis using random effects models to compute pooled prevalence proportions.
- Subgroup analyses and meta-regression to assess the effect of covariates, including study design.
Main Results:
- Included 45 reports (1974-2015) globally. Pooled prevalence: 10.3/100,000 overall; higher in Turkey (119.8) and the Middle East (31.8) than Asia (4.5) and Europe (3.3).
- Studies using sample survey designs reported significantly higher prevalence (82.5/100,000) compared to census designs (3.6/100,000).
- Meta-regression confirmed study design as a significant independent covariate affecting BD prevalence estimates.
Conclusions:
- Observed differences in Behçet's disease prevalence are likely due to both true geographic variation and methodological factors.
- The choice between sample survey and census design substantially impacts estimated BD prevalence.
- Standardizing study methodologies is crucial for accurate geographic comparisons of Behçet's disease prevalence.
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