Epidemiology of Multiple Sclerosis in Iran: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: There is a wide variation in the prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in different geographical regions and the epidemiology of MS in Iran has been a major topic of concern during the last decade. Several population-based studies have shown a sharp increase in the prevalence and incidence of MS in this region. In this study, for the first time, the aim was to provide a comprehensive review regarding the incidence and prevalence of MS across Iran. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. We also did a manual search of reference lists from primary articles and relevant reviews. Databases of ongoing research and unpublished literature were also searched. Results: A total of 22 relevant studies were reviewed and 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Incidence data were found in 5 studies and ranged from 0.68 to 9.1/100,000 per year in the Iranian population. Prevalence was reported in all studies and ranged from 5.3 to 74.28/100,000 with the higher prevalence among females (female/male ratio ranged from 1.8 to 3.6). The most prevalent subtype of MS was the relapsing-remitting form (65.8-87.8%). The sensory disturbance was the most initial presentation. Conclusion: The incidence and prevalence of MS in Iran has been increasing rapidly, especially in females. Future research should focus on determining the epidemiological features of MS in the neglected provinces with different ethnicities. Such an effort along with further research towards improvement of data on previously studied areas can enable a field to be opened up to identify the patterns of MS in varied genetic backgrounds and environments of Iran.

The Association Between Matrix Metalloproteinase-7 A-181G Polymorphism and the Risk of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in Iranian Kurdish Patients from Kermanshah

“…The incidence and prevalence of MS especially among Iranian females is rapidly growing with the female to male ratio of 1.8:3.6, while in most parts of the country the ratio is more than 3. This high female to male ratio might be explained by the difference in life style that is reflected in high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among young Iranian women (16).…”

Interleukin-33 plasma levels in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

“…Isfahan is one of the highest MS reported rate areas in Oceania and Asia (5,(29)(30)(31)(32)(33). Regarding the possible role of IL-33 in MS progression, we assessed IL-33 plasma levels in MS patients in comparison with healthy subjects.…”

Effect of 8-Week Aquatic, Land- based and Combined (Aquatic-Land) Training Programs On Walking Capacity in Women with Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A Burdenko Approach

“…The number of MS patients in the world is 2.1 million in 2008 and 2.3 million in 2013, about 30 per 100 000 [8, 9 and 10]. Studies show that the number of people with this disease is on the rise [11,12]. In Iran, the incidence of the disease has increased in the last three decades.…”

“…In Iran, the incidence of the disease has increased in the last three decades. By 1976, only 26 patients had been diagnosed with MS in the country, but now with 70,000 MS patients, Iran has the first rank in the Middle East [12,13].…”