Global epidemiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review of the published literature.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is relatively rare, yet the economic and social burden is substantial. Having accurate incidence and prevalence estimates would facilitate efficient allocation of healthcare resources.

Objective

To provide a comprehensive and critical review of the epidemiological literature on ALS.

Methods

MEDLINE and EMBASE (1995-2011) databases of population-based studies on ALS incidence and prevalence reporting quantitative data were analyzed. Data extracted included study location and time, design and data sources, case ascertainment methods and incidence and/or prevalence rates. Medians and interquartile ranges (IQRs) were calculated, and ALS case estimates were derived using 2010 population estimates.

Results

In all, 37 art

SUBMITTER: Chio A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4049265 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature