Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of multiple sclerosis in the southern region of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the clinico-epidemiological characteristics of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the southern region of the Republic of Azerbaijan, which has a population of 930,601.

Methods: This prospective, single-center, longitudinal study was conducted from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2022. MS patients in this region underwent examination and treatment under a State Program. During this period, 123 individuals visited the Neurological Center, and 104 confirmed MS cases were included in a digital database. Age-standardized incidence and prevalence rates per 100,000 were calculated using world and European population standards. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 27.

Results: The mean diagnostic age was 36.31±6.93 years, higher than the countrywide average of 34.9 years. The average diagnostic delay was 7.01 years, significantly longer than the national average of 5.2 years. Regional MS prevalence was 10.96/100,000, with higher urban rates but no significant sex difference. The average 10-years incidence of MS was 0.94±0.32/100,000. Compared to neighboring regions, such as Iran's East Azerbaijan Province and Turkiye, the MS prevalence in this area is lower. Although MS prevalence and incidence in Azerbaijan are below European levels, they exceed those in some Asian countries.

Conclusion: This is the first study on MS epidemiology in Southern Azerbaijan. The findings underscore the need for public awareness campaigns and enhanced diagnostic training for healthcare professionals, particularly in primary care, to facilitate early symptom detection and reduce diagnostic delays. Further research is recommended to investigate regional factors affecting MS diagnosis and to improve timely healthcare access.

Keywords: Azerbaijan; Delayed Diagnosis; Epidemiology; Incidence; Multiple Sclerosis; Prevalence.