Research: MS a disease of Affluence


Buchter B et al. Multiple Sclerosis: A Disease of Affluence?. Neuroepidemiology. 2012 39(1):51-56. [Epub ahead of print]

Background: Multiple sclerosis is rare in tropical areas, but quite common in developed countries. Hence, latitude has been accepted as a causal factor for prevalence of multiple sclerosis. However, developed countries have also strong economic power, which may be measured by real gross domestic product per capita. 

Methods: Bivariate and multivariate regression models were used to assess the association of the prevalence of multiple sclerosis of 62 countries with real gross domestic product per capita and latitude. 

Results: Real gross domestic product per capita and latitude are positively associated with the prevalence of multiple sclerosis. Real gross domestic product per capita is a much stronger predictor of prevalence ofmultiple sclerosis than latitude. 

Conclusion: The strong correlation between the real gross domestic product per capita and the prevalence rates of multiple sclerosis is pointing to a new direction in research on the causes of multiple sclerosis. It is plausible that certain lifestyles and consumption behaviors that require high purchasing power might be associated with an increased risk of multiple sclerosis.
                                                     Are plasters more likely to get MS?


It easy to try and link MS susceptibility to something when you know of the geographical distribution. We could also say that the distribution of MS is associated with having a certain type of car, because we know there are more of them in certain countries. Just check-out the car passing you in the fast-lane. But then you need to see if all MS or disproportionately more people with MS have a flash car and do this affluence and MS analysis within the country.

Is MS more common in affluent people? Maybe maybe not, but you would think so the way pharmaceutical companies are pricing their drugs.

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