The Burden of Multiple Sclerosis in Mexico

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating central nervous system disease prevalent in young and middle-aged adults.
• Mexico lacks comprehensive epidemiological data on MS, hindering effective healthcare planning.
• This study addresses the data gap by analyzing MS epidemiology in Mexico.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the epidemiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Mexico from 1990 to 2021.
• To assess MS prevalence, incidence, DALYs, YLDs, and YLLs.
• To examine the relationship between the sociodemographic index (SDI) and MS burden across Mexican states.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study.
• Employed standard GBD methodologies for analysis, including age-standardized metrics.
• Applied Pearson correlation, linear regression, and LOESS models to assess SDI association and regional disparities.

Main Results:

• In 2021, Mexico had an estimated 18,016 individuals living with MS, with a prevalence of 13.10 per 100,000.
• Total DALYs were 17,947, with higher-than-expected burdens in Central and Southern Mexico compared to the North.
• Significant regional disparities in MS burden were identified, linked to SDI and healthcare access.

Conclusions:

• Substantial regional disparities exist in Mexico's MS burden, with socioeconomic factors and healthcare access playing key roles.
• Northern Mexico demonstrated better-than-expected health outcomes, contrasting with Central and Southern regions.
• Improved data collection and targeted healthcare strategies are crucial for managing MS in Mexico.