Socioeconomic status and access to multiple sclerosis treatment in Mexico

IntroductionMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological autoimmune condition and the leading non-traumatic cause of disability worldwide. Disease-modifying therapies (DMT) directly impact on long-term prognosis patients with MS preventing relapses associated progression. Here, we analyzed socioeconomic status (SES) DMT access in Mexican patients.MethodsWe evaluated association between SES using registry from National Institute Neurology Neurosurgery Mexico City. We included 974 (McDonald 2010 criteria). categorized according to 2018 Association Market Research Agencies (AMAI) classification. type, phenotype, educational level, symptomatic onset diagnosis, EDSS at arrival, as well progression index. Chi-squared Wilcoxon tests were used, multivariable analysis performed for access.ResultsWhen comparing lower versus higher levels SES, significant was found percentage (EDSS >6) proportion not receiving any secondary progressive (p=0.006, p<0.001and p=0.004, respectively). also that had significance inverse first visit (p=0.019), diagnosis (p<0.001) arrival >6, p=0.010).ConclusionsOur study suggests an important factor determining only prompt but overall highly effective DMT. Lower are greater clinic up 12 months follow-up.