The epidemiology of multiple sclerosis in Spain. Data on prevalence and incidence

Introduction. Traditionally, Spain has been considered to be an area with a low prevalence of multiple sclerosis. However, the most recent studies show much higher figures than those previously described. Objective. We aim to summarize the current data on prevalence and incidence of the disorder in Spain so as to determine the true situation regarding multiple sclerosis in this country. Development. We have evaluated ail the epidemiological data published on the descriptive epidemiology of multiple sclerosis in Spain, and analysed the differences in method which might explain the disparity between the figures quoted. We also studied the data on incidence available, mainly in the Alcoi health district, where we carried our the most prolonged incidence study in Spain. Conclusions. The figures for prevalence given by the most recent studies include Spain in the area of moderate risk. The analysis of prevalence figures seem to indicate that these have varied with time and, at least in some zones, the incidence has increased in recent years.