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Prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis in British Columbia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

Vincent P. Sweeney ,
Adele D. Sadovnick  and
Vilma Brandejs
Vincent P. Sweeney*
Affiliation:
Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver
Adele D. Sadovnick
Affiliation:
Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver
Vilma Brandejs
Affiliation:
Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver
*
Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, #222 - 2775 Heather Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 3J5
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Abstract:

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A province wide prevalence study on multiple sclerosis (MS) was conducted in British Columbia (B.C.). The prevalence date was July 1, 1982. The major portion of this study was a review of all the files of neurologists practicing in B.C. as this was judged to be the most accurate source for identifying MS patients. 239,412 neurologists' files were hand searched by one researcher using modified Schumacher criteria for classification. Other sources used during the study for identifying MS patients were the MS Clinic, general practitioners, ophthalmologists, urologists, specialized facilities such as long term care facilities and rehabilitation centres, and patient self-referrals.

A total of 4,620 non-duplicated cases were identified and classified. 4,112 of these (89%) were classified according to information contained in neurologists' records.

The prevalence estimate for definite/probable MS in B.C. was 93.3/100,000 population. This increased to 130.5/100,000 population if possible MS and optic neuritis were also included. These rates are among the highest reported in Canada or elsewhere. The cooperation of B.C. neurologists made this study unique in its scope and accuracy of diagnosis.

Type
Original Articles
Information
Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences , Volume 13 , Issue 1 , February 1986 , pp. 47 - 51
Copyright
Copyright © Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation 1986

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