Epidemiological study of multiple sclerosis in the province of Novara

An epidemiological research has been conducted in Province of Novara by examining all cases from 1 January 1966 to 31 December 1975. Alter and Kurtzke's diagnostic criteria have been adopted, possible cases of M.S. were excluded from this study. The mean incidence rate is 1.8/100, the prevalence rate is 19.51/100,000. A higher prevalence rate was observed in the mountains (25.08/100,000). The most important clinical features are discussed with particular reference to the duration of the illness.