Epidemiology of Multiple Sclerosis in Iran: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
A meta-analysis of 142 studies found MS prevalence in Iran at 33.7 per 100,000 people, with 23.8 in men and 76.0 in women. The MS incidence was estimated at 4.2 per 100,000, with 2.2 in men and 6.7 in women. There was a significant upward trend in prevalence and incidence over time (P < 0.001).
- Tags
- #MSResearch
- Most relevant to
- —
Why it matters
These findings provide a clearer understanding of MS rates and trends in Iran, highlighting potential public health concerns. Understanding gender differences in prevalence could inform targeted research and resources.
What this does not prove
The study cannot determine causative factors for the increase in MS. It may have overlooked newer data as it only includes articles published until January 1, 2026.
Next milestone
No next milestone was established from the available source.
Study facts
- Study design
- Not reported
- Participants / samples
- 142 · total articles included in meta-analysis
- Randomised
- Not reported
- Controlled
- Not reported
- Primary endpoint met
- Not reported
- Relevant MS type
- Not reported
- Publication date
- 2026-09-04
- Evidence reviewed
- Abstract only
- Regulatory approval
- Not reported
- Research areas
- Not classified
Original sources
- Primary evidenceEpidemiology of multiple sclerosis in iran: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. ↗DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2026.107910
Supporting passages (8)
sample sizeA total of 56 articles comprising 142 individual studies were included in meta-analysis.
sample size basisRESULTS: A total of 56 articles comprising 142 individual studies were included in meta-analysis.
publication date2026-09-04
findingsThe overall prevalence of MS in Iran, based on 139 studies, was estimated at 33.7 per 100,000 population (33.7/ 100,000) (95%CI: 30.9-39.0).
findingsThe prevalence was 23.8/ 100,000 (95%CI: 21.0-27.0) in men and 76.0/ 100,000 (95%CI: 67.5-85.5) in women.
findingsBased on 80 studies, the incidence of MS in Iran was estimated at 4.2/ 100,000 (95%CI: 2.7-6.6), with an incidence of 2.2/ 100,000 (95%CI: 1.9-2.4) in men and 6.7/100,000 (95%CI: 5.9-7.5) in women.
findingsMeta-regression analysis revealed a statistically significant upward trend in both prevalence and incidence of MS in Iran over time (P < 0.001).
limitationsTitle: Epidemiology of multiple sclerosis in iran: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.
AI assessment, not yet reviewed by a person · version 1 · Community votes are separate from evidence review.