The social epidemiology of multiple sclerosis.
Building upon the accumulated demographic and sociocultural data dealing with the epidemiology of multiple sclerosis, a discussion and critical evaluation is offered of the most important social epidemiological features of this disease: (i) age and sex; (ii) availability of medical services; (iii) stress; (iv) ethnicity; (v) house pets; (vi) social-physical interaction; (vii) urban-rural residence; (viii) nutrition; (ix) socio-economic status; (x) population migration; and (xi) sanitation. Although the etiology of MS remains a mystery, sufficient evidence exists to connect demographic and sociocultural factors to the etiology and distribution of this disease.
Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY 12886-1632.
G W
GW
Lowis
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000818:Animals; D000829:Animals, Domestic; D004032:Diet; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000208:ethnology; D012307:Risk Factors; D012423:Rural Health; D012499:Sanitation; D012737:Sex Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013312:Stress, Physiological / Q000150:complications; D014171:Transients and Migrants; D014504:Urban Health