Prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Brazil: An updated systematic review with meta-analysis

Introduction

The prevalence of multiple sclerosis has been increased worldwide. However, no update on the prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Brazil has been conducted since 2015

Objective

The aim of the present review is to perform an update of the multiple sclerosis prevalence in Brazil as well as to analyze its current epidemiological profile

Methods

We searched for studies on the multiple sclerosis prevalence in Brazil. The databases researched were Medline (PubMed), Embase, Scielo, Scopus and Web of Science using the keywords “prevalence”, “prevalence study”, “incidence”, “epidemiology”, “multiple sclerosis” and “Brazil”

Results

Eleven studies were included for descriptive and quantitative analysis. The pooled prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Brazil estimates 14.5 cases per 100.000 inhabitants. It is more prevalent in white people (74 %) and female (76.3 %). The most prevalent clinical form is the relapsing-remitting form (80.2 %), followed by the secondary progressive form (13 %) and by the primary progressive form (6.8 %)

Conclusion

Although the prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Brazil varies substantially between regions, it is in accordance with what is known in the world. However, there is a lack of recent epidemiological studies of multiple sclerosis in Brazil and more studies are needed for better accuracy and comprehension of its prevalence.