Epidemiology of Ankylosing spondylitis in Rochester, Minnesota, 1935-1973

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Epidemiology
• Medical Records Linkage

Background:

• Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine.
• Understanding the long-term incidence, prevalence, and survival rates of AS is crucial for public health planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence, prevalence, and survival rates of ankylosing spondylitis in a defined population over a 39-year period.
• To investigate potential differences in AS impact between males and females.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 102 ankylosing spondylitis cases diagnosed between 1935 and 1973.
• Utilized the Mayo Clinic records linkage facility for Rochester, Minnesota residents.
• Compared survival data of AS patients with the general population.

Main Results:

• The incidence of AS remained stable over the 39-year study period.
• Males were three times more likely to be diagnosed with AS than females.
• Survivorship for males with AS was similar to the general population, but reduced for females.

Conclusions:

• Ankylosing spondylitis shows a consistent incidence over time in this population.
• There are significant sex-based differences in AS prevalence and survival.
• Further research is needed to understand the reduced survivorship in females with AS.