Prevalence of multiple sclerosis and treatment utilization in a large, highly diverse population

Despite advances in algorithms for identifying people with MS (PwMS) in large data sets, limited data exists on regional prevalence, or prevalence and care in minority populations.

To report the 7-year (01/01/2012-12/31/2018) prevalence and demographics of MS and disease-modifying therapy (DMT) utilization in a large, diverse population.

This retrospective analysis used the OneFlorida Data Trust, which captures health data from >15 million Floridians across 10 constituent organizations. A validated algorithm identified subjects with MS. DMTs were identified using RxNorm concept unique identifiers and National Drug Codes. Results were stratified across age, sex, race-ethnicity, and location.

Of 6,638,649 adults in the database, the algorithm identified 9681 PwMS. Overall prevalence per 100,000 was 145.83. MS prevalence was considerable in women of all races and ethnicities ranging from 138.86 to 253.76 per 100,000. 52.6% of PwMS had one or more DMT prescription. DMT prescription was more likely in Hispanic PwMS.

Prevalence analysis of the OneFlorida Data Trust revealed a substantial burden of disease in women of all races and ethnicities. Variation in treatment utilization among demographic subgroups underscores the need for additional studies to assess health care disparities in MS at the population level.