Multiple sclerosis in the Arabian Gulf countries: a consensus statement

The epidemiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) is rapidly changing in many parts of the world. Based on the Kurtzke classification, the Arabian Gulf Region is located in a low-risk zone for MS; however, recent studies suggest a moderate-to-high prevalence nearby (31–55 MS per 10,0000 individuals), with...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of neurology 2013-12, Vol.260 (12), p.2959-2963
Main Authors: Bohlega, Saeed, Inshasi, Jihad, Al Tahan, Abdel Rahman, Madani, Abu Bakr, Qahtani, Hussien, Rieckmann, Peter
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Classification
Epidemiology
Humans
Medicine
Medicine & Public Health
Middle East - epidemiology
Multiple sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis - epidemiology
Neurology
Neuroradiology
Neurosciences
Review
Vitamin D
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Summary:The epidemiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) is rapidly changing in many parts of the world. Based on the Kurtzke classification, the Arabian Gulf Region is located in a low-risk zone for MS; however, recent studies suggest a moderate-to-high prevalence nearby (31–55 MS per 10,0000 individuals), with an increase in incidence in recent years. The relapsing-remitting disease course ratio is 2.5:1 versus the primary progressive type. In a geographic area that was previously associated with low prevalence; the recent high prevalence and fast rising incidence of MS in the gulf countries, encouraged the neurologists of this region to meet in a consensus panel, in order to share our latest findings in terms of MS epidemiology and consent on MS management in the Arabian Gulf. Therefore 20 key opinion leader neurologists and MS experts representing various countries of the Arabian Gulf have met in Dubai on the 2 and 3 February 2012, they shared their latest epidemiological findings, discussed recent MS aspects in the region, and consented on MS management relevantly to this geographic area.
ISSN:0340-5354
1432-1459
DOI:10.1007/s00415-013-6876-4