Denmark faces highest prevalence of multiple sclerosis globally with nearly 19,000 affected

In Denmark, one in every 332 individuals is affected by multiple sclerosis, a chronic and unpredictable disease that can impair vision, speech, and movement. Nearly 19,000 Danes are currently living with the condition, making Denmark the country with the highest prevalence of multiple sclerosis in the world, according to recent data from the International Multiple Sclerosis Federation.

Today, around 5,000 volunteers are canvassing door-to-door with collection boxes and mobile pay options to raise funds for research into what Steen Hansen, local chairman for the Sclerosis Association in Esbjerg and Fanø, describes as “the cursed disease.” He notes that the number of cases is increasing, with approximately 700 new diagnoses each year. “The only way we can tackle the disease is by having researchers find a cure,” he states.

Hansen recalls the shock he experienced when his daughter was diagnosed. Currently, there are more than twice as many women diagnosed with multiple sclerosis as men, with nearly 70% of patients being female. The average age of diagnosis is 37 for relapsing forms and 51 for primary progressive forms. Over half of patients report their first symptoms between the ages of 20 and 40.

The uncertainty that accompanies a diagnosis, compounded by the possibility of sudden aggressive disease progression, remains a critical issue for patients. Melinda Magyari, a specialist and head of the Danish sclerosis register, attributes Denmark’s high incidence to genetics, environmental factors, and low levels of vitamin D, among other factors.

Last year, the Sclerosis Association successfully raised 6.3 million Danish kroner for ongoing research.