Dramatic Changes in Multiple Sclerosis Prevalence in Iran A Descriptive Study in Ten Regions of Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Student Research Committee, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran,

2 Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden,

3 Iranian Research Center on Aging, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran,

4 Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Neyshabur University of Medical sciences, Neyshabur, Iran

10.4103/iahs.iahs_60_20

Abstract

Background and Objectives: 
The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) differs between different regions of Iran. This study aimed to investigate changes in prevalence and incidence rates of MS in ten ethnic and cultural zones of Iran set by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education.
Materials and Methods: 
Information on MS incidence and prevalence was obtained from the national registry of MS during the study period 2006–2013. Demographic data were acquired from the Statistical Centre of Iran.
Results: 
A rising trend of MS prevalence was observed in Iran, and overall, the prevalence of MS increased by 3.67% per year. The highest prevalence rates of MS, and the most dramatic increase in MS prevalence, occurred in the central areas of Iran. However, during the 7-year period, the prevalence gradually increased also in southern and western areas.
Conclusion: 
The prevalence and incidence of MS have been rapidly increasing in all regions of Iran, especially from central to western and southern regions.

Keywords

International Archives of Health Sciences
Volume 7, Issue 4
December 2020
Pages 182-186

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History

  • Receive Date: 09 July 2023
  • Accept Date: 09 July 2023

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