Estimated Prevalence and Incidence of Multiple Sclerosis in Iran

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system and its epidemiology has changed in recent years. Previously, Iran was considered to have a low MS prevalence. In this study, we aimed to update the prevalence and incidence of MS in Iran. Patients and Methods: This study was conducted based on the data derived from the new report of Iran's Ministry Of Health and Medical Education (MOHME) regarding the patients who have registered to obtain support for treatment in Iran till the end of 2013. Results: Among the 42,200 registered patients, 32,477 were female and 9,723 were male (sex ratio: 3.34: 1), and 4,545 were diagnosed in 2013. This resulted in a prevalence of 54.51 and an incidence of 5.87 per 100,000. Conclusion: According to our study results, Iran has a medium- to-high prevalence rate of MS. According to the previous epidemiologic studies from Iran, it seems that the prevalence of MS significantly has increased during recent years. This rate is similar to what is seen in many western countries. (C) 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel