A PREVALENCE SURVEY OF MULTIPLE-SCLEROSIS IN SUSSEX

A first survey of the Brighten and Mid-Downs health districts in Susse x showed a prevalence of multiple sclerosis of 111 per 100 000 (95% co nfidence interval (95% CI) 103-120) in a population of 596 594 on prev alence day, 1 July 1991. Cases were notified by multiple sources and t o maximise case notification patients were not contacted. Cases were c lassified by hospital and family practitioner notes. The Poser criteri a were used for classification. These criteria are precise and exclude cases of isolated spinal cord syndrome. The Allison and Millar criter ia used in the surveys in Scotland may lack specificity and it is conc luded that the high prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Scotland needs to be reassessed with the more precise criteria. Until this is done, the latitude effect within the United Kingdom remains not proved.