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Updated: Feb 14, 2026

Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Poland
Katarzyna Kapica-Topczewska1, Waldemar Brola2, Malgorzata Fudala2
1Department of Neurology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland.
Objective:
The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS)was previously unknown in Poland. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of MS in Poland.
Methods:
MS prevalence was determined on the basis of data from the Swietokrzyskie (central Poland) and Podlaskie (northeastern Poland) Voivodeships. The area population on the prevalence study day (December 31, 2013) was 1,268,239 (649,007 women; 619,232 men) in central and 1,195,625 (612,979 women; 582,646 men) in northeastern Poland.
Results:
The overall crude prevalence rate of confirmed MS patients was 109.1/100,000 (95% confidence interval[CI]103.5-115.0) in the Swietokrzyskie and 108.7/100,000 (95% CI 103.0-114.7) in the Podlaskie Voivodeships. A significantly higher prevalence was recorded in females (149.8/100,000, 95% CI 140.6-159.3 vs. 142.4/100,000, 95% CI 133.3-152.0) than in males (66.5/100,000, 95% CI 60.4-73.1 vs.57.8/100,000, 95% CI 52.0-64.2)(p < 0.001). Age-adjusted rates for the Polish Standard Population were the same in both regions (110.3/100,000 (95% CI 104.6-116.1) vs.110.9/100,000 (95% CI 105.1-117.1)) and for the European Standard Population did not different statistically between both voivodeships (103.9/100,000 (95% CI 98.6-109.5) vs.108.5/100,000 (95% CI 102.7-114.5)).
Conclusion:
This is the first data that obtained the level of MS prevalence in Poland and confirmed that Poland is a high-risk area for multiple sclerosis.
Insights
This study determined multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence in Poland, revealing it as a high-risk area. The findings indicate a significant prevalence, particularly in females, establishing crucial epidemiological data for the region.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Poland was previously undocumented.
- Understanding MS distribution is vital for healthcare planning and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ascertain the prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) within Poland.
- To establish baseline epidemiological data for MS in the Polish population.
Main Methods:
- Prevalence data collected from Swietokrzyskie and Podlaskie Voivodeships in Poland.
- Population data from December 31, 2013, used for calculations.
- Crude and age-adjusted prevalence rates were determined.
Main Results:
- Overall crude MS prevalence was approximately 109/100,000 in both studied regions.
- Significantly higher prevalence observed in females compared to males (p < 0.001).
- Age-adjusted rates were consistent across regions when compared to Polish and European Standard Populations.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first comprehensive data on MS prevalence in Poland.
- Poland is identified as a high-risk area for multiple sclerosis.
- The findings underscore the need for targeted MS research and healthcare strategies in Poland.
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