The social epidemiology of multiple sclerosis.

Building upon the accumulated demographic and sociocultural data dealing with the epidemiology of multiple sclerosis, a discussion and critical evaluation is offered of the most important social epidemiological features of this disease: (i) age and sex; (ii) availability of medical services; (iii) stress; (iv) ethnicity; (v) house pets; (vi) social-physical interaction; (vii) urban-rural residence; (viii) nutrition; (ix) socio-economic status; (x) population migration; and (xi) sanitation. Although the etiology of MS remains a mystery, sufficient evidence exists to connect demographic and sociocultural factors to the etiology and distribution of this disease.