Multiple Sclerosis: An Overview of Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Serological Biomarkers
Ming-Cheng Shi, Yingying Liu, Qiuyue Gong, Xian-rong Xu
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, which is a primary cause of neurological disability in young and middle‐aged individuals in economically developed nations. Although MS is more prevalent and of ever‐increasing incidence in developed countries, patients with MS in developing nations confront unique challenges marked by significant economic and social burdens due to their limited access to the advanced diagnostic and treatment resources that are available in developed regions. Timely diagnosis is paramount for effective intervention in MS cases. Regrettably, there is limited availability of neuroimaging evaluations in low‐ and middle‐income nations, prompting the need to obtain alternative diagnostic approaches. In this article, we provide an overview of the worldwide epidemiology of MS, delving into associated risk factors, and examining serological biomarkers as alternatives to imaging. It is, therefore, imperative that strategies for the early diagnosis and treatment of MS are implemented in low‐ and middle‐income countries. This will lead to improved prognoses and quality of life, with a particular focus on enhancing outcomes.