Prevalence and incidence of multiple sclerosis in Kosovo: Data from Kosovan national multiple sclerosis registry.

BACKGROUND

Many studies report different prevalence and incidence estimates for multiple sclerosis (MS). Epidemiological data from Southeast Europe remain scarce.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence, incidence, and demographic characteristics of MS in the Republic of Kosovo using data from the National MS Registry.

METHODS

The Kosovo National MS Registry was established in January 2020. Patients diagnosed according to the 2017 McDonald criteria are automatically registered. Demographic and epidemiological data of all registered patients up to December 31, 2025, were analyzed. Prevalence and incidence rates were calculated using population data from the 2024 national census.

RESULTS

A total of 776 MS patients were registered. Females accounted for 64.1% (n = 497), and males for 35.9% (n = 279), with a female-to-male ratio of 1.8:1. The mean patient age was 39.9 (±12.3) years. The national MS prevalence was estimated at 48.9 per 100,000 inhabitants. From 2020 to 2025, 373 new MS cases were diagnosed, with a mean annual incidence of 3.9 per 100,000 inhabitants. Nearly half of the patients were between 30 and 49 years old.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate a moderate prevalence with a steadily rising incidence, although the actual prevalence may be higher due to incomplete historical data prior to the registry's establishment.