PREVALENCE OF MULTIPLE-SCLEROSIS IN BULGARIA

The previously reported prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Bulgaria i s considerably lower than that reported for neighbouring countries. Th e aim of this study was to perform a detailed epidemiological investig ation in well-defined populations in this country to obtain an accurat e estimate of the frequency of multiple sclerosis. An epidemiological study was conducted in two small areas of the country. All patients wi th clinically or laboratory-supported: definite multiple sclerosis acc ording to Poser's criteria were personally interviewed. The study was begun in January, 1993 and December 31, 1995 was selected as prevalenc e day. The prevalence ratio of multiple sclerosis per 100,000 populati on was 39.3 in the first community and 39.1 in the second, Thus, the p revalence ratio of multiple sclerosis in Bulgaria is not significantly different from that reported in bordering countries.