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Epidemiology and characteristics of multiple sclerosis in Latin America

Jefferson Becker1, Milena Sales Pitombeira2, Juan Ignacio Rojas3

  • 1Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul School of Medicine, Porto Alegre, Brazil. jefferson.becker@pucrs.br.

Nature Reviews. Neurology
|November 17, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence is lower in Latin America due to unique genetic and environmental factors. Research and clinical trial participation are growing in the region for this neurological disease.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Epidemiology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Global multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence is rising, with notable regional variations.
  • Latin America exhibits a comparatively lower MS prevalence, potentially linked to regional characteristics.
  • Understanding these variations offers insights into MS pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the factors contributing to the lower prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Latin America.
  • To discuss the diagnostic approaches and research advancements for MS in the region.
  • To highlight the unique epidemiological and etiological aspects of MS in Latin America.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature and epidemiological data on multiple sclerosis prevalence.
  • Analysis of genetic admixture and environmental factors in Latin America.
  • Examination of diagnostic criteria and clinical trial participation in the region.

Main Results:

  • Latin America shows lower MS prevalence, influenced by a unique history of population admixture (Native American, European, African).
  • Environmental factors in the Southern Hemisphere may also contribute to reduced MS rates.
  • The McDonald criteria are effective for MS diagnosis in Latin America, with careful exclusion of mimetic regional diseases.

Conclusions:

  • The distinct genetic and environmental landscape of Latin America influences MS prevalence.
  • MS research and patient involvement in clinical trials are expanding in Latin America.
  • Real-world data from registries are crucial for understanding region-specific MS features.

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