Abstract
Background: From the middle of the last century, hospital-based data have often suggested the MS was not found among blacks living in sub-Saharan Africa. Earliest studies from South Africa were focused white South Africans. The objective of this review is to provide an overview on the current status of the epidemiology of multiple sclerosis and management in sub-Saharan Africa. It aims to bring to the fore the growing prevalence and challenges of people living with multiple sclerosis in the face of increasing incidence.
Methods: We conducted a literature review of articles on multiple sclerosis in sub-Saharan Africa. Papers on the subject were summarised and conclusion established.
Results: Cases of multiple sclerosis has been reported from all regions of sub-Saharan Africa, although not from all countries. Most available studies were case reports or case series. The largest case series was from Kenya. Epidemiological studies were only from South Africa. Data on multiple sclerosis were also collected from papers on the pattern of neurological disease seen in big urban hospitals. No study has explored the incidence and quality of life of people living with multiple sclerosis. There is some evidence that facilities for the management of multiple sclerosis have generally improved as many of the patients had brain MRI.
Conclusion: Robust studies on MS is lacking in SSA. Targeted measures aimed at improving the management and treatment of MS in SSA should include national and international studies in SSA