Global prevalence of multiple sclerosis surpasses 3 million: 2024 update of the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation Atlas of MS

Abstract

Background: The Atlas of MS provides a dataset on multiple sclerosis. This analysis updates the global prevalence (including separate estimates for pediatric multiple sclerosis) and incidence of multiple sclerosis, and examines changes over time using data from 2013, 2020, and 2024. Methods: Countries participating in the 2024 Atlas update confirmed or updated epidemiological data. Global prevalence was estimated using submitted case counts supplemented with pooled subregional rates and, for 2020 and 2024, literature-based imputation. Results: Experts in 133 countries representing 93% of the global population participated. Prevalence data were provided by 118 countries. Global multiple sclerosis prevalence per 100,000 rose from 24.8 (95% confidence interval: 24.73–24.80) in 2013 to 38.1 (95% confidence interval: 38.09–38.17) in 2024 and most regions showed rising prevalence; 3.1 million people now live with multiple sclerosis globally. Higher-income countries reported higher prevalence than lower-income countries. The number of reported pediatric multiple sclerosis cases increased from 7,000 in 2013 to >40,000 in 2024. Incidence data provided by 91 countries estimated that 120,000 new diagnoses occur annually. Conclusion: Global multiple sclerosis prevalence continues to rise. Strengthened and equitable data collection is essential as diagnostic criteria evolve, and these findings provide a benchmark before widespread adoption of the 2024 McDonald criteria.