MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS PREVALENCE IN SOUTHEASTERN SPAIN (P3.378)

Objective: The aim of this study is to establish the prevalence of MS in this region and to describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of our patients. Background: Epidemiological data concerning Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Spain over the past few decades are limited. To date, no studies exist in the Region of Murcia, located in southeastern Spain. Design/Methods: Retrospective descriptive study sampling the population residing in the central-western health area of Murcia Region (257.865 inhabitants) and including all the patients diagnosed in this area before the 31 st December 2014. Demographic and clinical data obtained from different sources are analyzed. Results: 227 patients (67.8% women), with an average age of 31.4. 81.9% presented a relapsing-remitting course. The most frequently affected functional system was the sensory system (45.1%); we found monofocal onset in 55.4% of the cases and a score of 2.1 in the EDSS (Expanded-Disability-Status-Score) scale at diagnosis. MS prevalence in the studied population was 88 cases/100,000 inhabitants. MS prevalence together with CIS (Clinically Isolated Syndrome) was 98.4 cases/100,000 inhabitants. Average MS incidence in the last 6 years: 5.8 cases/100,000 inhabitants/year Conclusions: The current prevalence of MS in the Region of Murcia is similar to that estimated in other Spanish regions. Our study confirms the increasing trend in the prevalence observed over the past few decades Disclosure: Dr. Carreon Guarnizo has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hernandez Clares has nothing to disclose. Dr. Cerdan Sanchez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Garcia Molina has nothing to disclose. Dr. Diaz Perez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Martin Fernandez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Meca Lallana has nothing to disclose.