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Prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Bulgaria
I Milanov1, D Georgiev, K Kmetska
1University Hospital of Neurology and Psychiatry, Third Neurological Clinic, Sofia, Bulgaria.
Neuroepidemiology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
The prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Bulgaria was found to be similar to neighboring countries. This epidemiological study provides an accurate estimate of multiple sclerosis frequency in Bulgaria.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Previous reports indicated a lower prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Bulgaria compared to neighboring nations.
- This discrepancy necessitated a detailed epidemiological investigation to ascertain the true frequency of MS in the country.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a precise epidemiological study in defined Bulgarian populations.
- To accurately estimate the prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Bulgaria.
Main Methods:
- An epidemiological study was performed in two selected small regions of Bulgaria.
- Patients with definite multiple sclerosis (MS) were identified using Poser's criteria and personally interviewed.
- Prevalence was assessed on December 31, 1995, after a study initiation in January 1993.
Main Results:
- The prevalence ratio of multiple sclerosis (MS) was 39.3 per 100,000 population in the first community.
- The prevalence ratio of multiple sclerosis (MS) was 39.1 per 100,000 population in the second community.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Bulgaria is comparable to that of bordering countries.
- The findings correct previous underestimations of MS frequency in Bulgaria.