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Epidemiology and characteristics of multiple sclerosis in Latin America

Nature Reviews Neurology volume 22, pages 22–36 (2026)Cite this article

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Abstract

According to the MS International Federation, the global prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) is increasing, although regional variations have been reported, which could provide valuable insights into MS pathophysiology. As we highlight in this Review, the prevalence of MS in Latin America is comparatively low, possibly owing at least in part to the unique genetic and environmental characteristics of this region. Latin America has experienced centuries of admixture between Native American Indian populations and people from other parts of the world, including Europe and — to a lesser extent — Africa. Moreover, certain environmental factors in the Southern Hemisphere might contribute to this reduced MS prevalence. The McDonald criteria are considered to be a useful tool to diagnose MS in Latin America, although it is important to exclude regional diseases that can mimic MS. MS research is burgeoning in the region, and increasing numbers of Latin American patients are participating in randomized clinical trials. In addition, real-world data from national and regional MS registries are helping us to understand the distinct features of the disease in Latin America.

Key points

  • The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Latin America is low-to-medium but is increasing, influenced by the region’s unique genetic admixture and specific environmental factors.

  • The clinical presentation of MS in Latin America is largely similar to that in high-prevalence regions.

  • The adoption of the McDonald criteria has reduced diagnostic delays; however, accurate diagnosis requires careful exclusion of MS mimics.

  • Profound disparities in health-care access, rooted in social determinants of health, substantially affect diagnosis, treatment and outcomes.

  • Collaborative research networks and real-world data from regional registries are crucial to provide insights into the distinct features of MS in Latin America and help address the historical under-representation of this population in clinical trials.

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Fig. 1: Barriers to MS treatment access in Latin America.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul School of Medicine, Porto Alegre, Brazil

    Jefferson Becker

  2. Department of Neurology, Hospital Geral de Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Brazil

    Milena Sales Pitombeira

  3. MS Center, Hospital Universitario de CEMIC, Buenos Aires, Argentina

    Juan Ignacio Rojas

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  1. Jefferson Becker
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  2. Milena Sales Pitombeira
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  3. Juan Ignacio Rojas
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Becker, J., Pitombeira, M.S. & Rojas, J.I. Epidemiology and characteristics of multiple sclerosis in Latin America. Nat Rev Neurol 22, 22–36 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41582-025-01160-0

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