Address of Corresponding Author

Neuroepidemiology 2004;23:306-309 (DOI: 10.1159/000080097)

  Key Words

• Multiple sclerosis
• Prevalence
• Incidence
• Sicily

  Abstract

Background: Several follow-up studies showed increasing prevalence and incidence rates for multiple sclerosis (MS). Objective: To ascertain, throughout a follow-up study, the incidence and prevalence of MS in the city of Monreale, Sicily, southern Italy. Methods: We calculated crude and age- and sex-specific prevalence rates on December 31, 2000, and determined incidence rates for the period January 1, 1992 to December 31, 2000. Results: The prevalence of MS was 71.2 per 100,000 population (48,5/100,000 in men; 93,0/100,000 in women). The incidence rate of MS for the period 1992–2000 was 4.0/100,000 per year. Conclusion: This study showed a nonsignificant increase in MS incidence rates in Monreale city for 1992–2000 compared to 1981–1991. Prevalence rates were similar to those of the previous follow-up study. Intervals between onset of symptoms and diagnosis seemed shorter than in prior studies. There is no evidence that the high prevalence and incidence rates have changed in this interval but numbers are too small for firm statements. These findings indicate that in Monreale city MS prevalence is stable and confirm Sicily as a high-risk area for MS.

Copyright © 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel

  Author Contacts

Giovanni Savettieri, MD
Institute of Neuropsychiatry, University of Palermo
Via Gaetano La Loggia 1
IT–90129 Palermo (Italy)
Tel. +39 091 6555146, Fax +39 091 6555147, E-Mail gsavetti@tin.it

  Article Information

Published online: August 6, 2004
Number of Print Pages : 4
Number of Figures : 0, Number of Tables : 3, Number of References : 11