Multiple sclerosis prevalence study: The comparison of 3 coastal cities, located in the black sea and mediterranean regions of Turkey.

The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) has significantly increased all over the world. Recent studies have shown that Turkey has quite a high prevalence. The aim of this study is to estimate prevalence in the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions of Turkey and to compare the results.This study was designed as a door to door survey in 3 cities. One is located in the Mediterranean region (South), 2 are located in the Black Sea region (North). A previous validated form was used for screening in the field. The patients were examined first in the field, then in the regional health facility. McDonald criteria were used for the diagnosis.In total, 26 patients were diagnosed with MS. The prevalence was found to be 18.6/100,000 in Artvin (Black Sea region), 55.5/100,000 in Ordu, (Black Sea region), 52.00/100,000 in Gazipasa (Mediterranean region). The female/male ratio was 2.25.This study is the first prevalence study which was conducted in the Mediterranean City (South) of Turkey. The prevalence rate was found to be higher than expected in the Mediterranean city of Gazipasa. The results showed that the prevalence varies from region to region. Latitude difference was not observed.

Stroke prevalence among the Turkish population in a rural area of Istanbul: A community-based study.

BACKGROUND: The population-based information on the prevalence of stroke from rural areas of Middle East countries including Turkey is unknown. Our aim is to evaluate the prevalence of stroke in those ⩾18 years in the Turkish population in a rural area of Istanbul. METHODS: A cross-sectional door-to-door study was conducted in a rural area of Istanbul between 1 March and 30 March 2013. A research protocol recommended by World Health Organization for developing countries was used. Each screening teams consisted of one neurologist, one local nurse, and five surveyors. Teams were trained about the survey and questionnaire. The patients, who claimed to have suffered a stroke, were examined, and the diagnosis was confirmed by a neurologist on site. The findings and medical records were documented. RESULTS: In total, 2906 people ⩾18 years were screened. 50 stroke cases were detected. 80% of those were found to have had an ischemic stroke, 14% of those were hemorrhagic cases, and 6% of those had an unclassified stroke type. The overall prevalence rate in those ⩾ 18 years was 1.7%. The male/female ratio was 0.92. Young (<45) stroke prevalence was found to be 0.6%. CONCLUSION: This study was the first of its kind to show the stroke prevalence among Turkish population ⩾ 18 years in a rural area of Istanbul. When compared to other studies which investigate people ⩾45 years from Turkey, the result (in the same age group) was moderate high. The male/female ratio was low compared to many other studies.