The prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Australia increased by 9% between 2010 and 2017, a study based on prescription data shows.
The rise in MS was likely due to increased longevity of people with the disease and improved diagnosis based on MRI rather than clinical symptoms, according to the researchers form the Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania.
In their analysis of PBS prescription data for disease modifying therapy (DMT) such as fingolimod, they calculated that the number of people with MS in Australia in 2017 was 25,607, a significant increase of 4324 on the estimate of 21,283 people with MS made in 2010.
Rates of MS increased by as much as 30% in states and territories such as South Australia and the ACT, whereas they remained stable in Victoria (up 3%) and Tasmania (5%)
The study also confirmed a strong correlation between MS rates and latitude, with prevalence almost double in Tasmania (138.7/100,000) compared to Queensland (74.6/100,000).
Overall the variation in MS prevalence was an increase of 3% per degree latitude.
PBS data for MS prescriptions 2017 (total 188,243):
Fingolimod (Gilenya) | 65,327 |
Natalizumab (Tysabri) | 32,092 |
DMF (Tecfidra) | 25,636 |
Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) | 19,688 |
Teriflunomide (Aubagio) | 15,520 |
Interferon beta 1-B (Betaferon) | 7978 |
Peginterferon (Plegridy) | 7742 |
Interferon Beta 1-A (Avonex) | 6793 |
Interferon beta 1-A (Rebif 44) | 6026 |