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Multiple sclerosis in Iran: An epidemiological update with focus on air pollution debate

Masoud Amiri1,2,3

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Journal of Clinical and Translational Research
|June 9, 2021
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Air pollution may be a significant risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS) in Iran, particularly in industrial areas like Isfahan and Tehran. However, the relationship requires further investigation due to regional variations in MS prevalence.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Environmental Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a prevalent central nervous system disorder with increasing incidence globally, including the Middle East.
  • Understanding environmental risk factors for MS in Iran is crucial due to its growing prevalence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential association between air pollution and multiple sclerosis (MS) in Iran.
  • To analyze the distribution of MS and air pollution levels across Iranian provinces.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of published articles on MS and air pollution in Iran up to 2020.
  • Assessment of MS prevalence and air/soil pollution data within Iran.

Main Results:

  • MS prevalence varies across Iran, with highest rates observed in Isfahan and Tehran.
  • Higher MS rates in industrial cities like Isfahan and Tehran suggest a possible link to industrial pollution.
  • A high-risk MS belt extends from the northwest to the southeast of Iran, but non-industrial areas also show high prevalence, complicating the pollution hypothesis.

Conclusions:

  • Multiple sclerosis risk factors in Iran include age, gender, Vitamin D deficiency, smoking, and air pollution.
  • Air pollution is a potential primary risk factor for MS, especially in Isfahan and Tehran.
  • The high MS rates in non-industrial Chahar Mahal and Bakhtiary Province indicate that other factors likely contribute to MS etiology in Iran.
Keywords:
Iranair pollutionepidemiologymultiple sclerosis

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