Residents of the Morrison, IL area have long perceived an elevated multiple sclerosis level in their community. To assess whether a cluster exists, the local health department engaged the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford to study the prevalence of MS within their zip code. Case finding was conducted by the local MS chapter using a form developed by the medical school which also covered individual demographics, medical history, comorbidity and the impact of the disease. The study found about 300 cases per 100,000 population, one of the highest levels ever reported worldwide. The finding must be tempered by the fact that the study was based on self-designation rather than medical verification. Though the cause of MS is unclear, the northern European ancestry of the area may be one factor in that northern Europeans tend to exhibit higher levels of MS and genetics may play a part in transmission. No significant commonalities existed in the the backgound of the individuals other than residence. Possible environmental causes would require greater investigation Though MS has no cure, the health department and MS Society will work to promote awareness, identification and appropriate use of services for diagnosis and treatment. Further studies may continue to probe causation.
Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to: 1. Describe the worldwide epidemiology of multiple sclerosis. 2. Discuss methods to determine the prevalence of multiple sclerosis in a community as well as barriers to such a study. 3. Evaluate the significance of the Morrison findings to the knowledge of the epidemiology of MS. 4. Name ways that a local health department may approach MS as a community health issue.
Keywords: Epidemiology, Chronic Diseases
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.