Abstract: (1121 Views)
Background and Objective: The influence of environmental and geographical factors on the prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) disease is significant. The aim of this study was to spatially map the prevalence of MS in Fars province using a geographic information system (GIS).
Methods: In the current study, the data of 2031 MS patients in Fars province of Iran in 2023 were analyzed. The data were collected using demographic characteristics, clinical variables, environmental data, weather conditions and GPS coordinates of the province and then entered into Arch-GIS software.
Findings: Most of the MS patients were over 40 years old, married, and housewives, had a bachelor's degree, suffered from vitamin D deficiency, and had blood type O. Most patients were treated with injectable drugs. The GIS analysis revealed that Shiraz and Morvdasht were high-risk regions for MS, especially for the female population. The prevalence of the disease was highly concentrated in areas with moderate temperature, humidity, and higher rainfall and was higher in higher altitude regions than in warmer areas.
Conclusion: This study consistent with previous studies conducted in Iran and worldwide. The prevalence of MS in different regions of Fars and the country can be attributed to unique ethnic, nutritional and environmental factors, warranting further investigation and research.
Article number: 3
Type of Study:
Research |
Subject:
Special Received: 2024/03/31 | Accepted: 2024/06/15 | Published: 2024/07/29