Multiple Sclerosis - Epidemiology Forecast - 2034
Description
Key Highlights
According to DelveInsight’s estimates, diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in the 7MM were around 1.6 million in 2024.
DelveInsight estimates that in 2024, there were about 926 thousand total diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in the US, with approximately 5 thousand cases occurring in the pediatric population and the majority—around 921 thousand —affecting adults.
In 2024, the diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in EU4 and the UK showed a clear gender disparity, with approximately 205 thousand cases in males and 490 thousand in females. These numbers are projected to increase over the forecast period (2025–2034).
In 2024, Germany recorded the highest number of MS cases across EU4 and the UK, with approximately 257 thousand cases. It also reported the highest number of cases specifically in the Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) phenotype.
In 2024, most diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in Japan were concentrated in the lower range of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), with around 17 thousand patients falling within the 0–2.5 score category.
Accurate MS diagnosis is hindered by nonspecific symptoms, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) overinterpretation, and inconsistent criteria application. Limited patient and provider awareness, along with restricted specialist access cause misdiagnoses. Enhancing clinician training, specialist availability, and diagnostic tools is critical for timely diagnosis.
The chronic nature of MS can lead to mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, with societal stigma further exacerbating psychological distress and social isolation.
DelveInsight’s “Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – Epidemiology Forecast – 2034” report delivers an in-depth understanding of MS, historical and forecasted epidemiology trends in the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan.
Geography Covered
The United States
EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom
Japan
Study Period: 2020–2034
Disease Understanding
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Overview
MS is the most common neurological disorder, affecting adults, typically appearing between the ages of 20 and 40. It is a chronic condition that impacts the central nervous system (CNS) by targeting the axons, which are nerve fibers protected by a fatty substance called myelin, primarily found in the brain’s white matter. MS causes damage to both the nerve cell bodies in the brain’s gray matter and the axons in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves, which transmit visual information from the eyes to the brain. As the disease advances, it can lead to shrinkage of the brain’s outer layer, known as the cerebral cortex.
The hallmark of MS is the formation of scar tissue, called sclerosis or plaques, which result from the immune system mistakenly attacking the myelin. These plaques appear as lesions that can vary in size and are detectable through MRI in both white and gray matter areas of the brain and spinal cord. During MS flare-ups, inflammation caused by immune cells damages or destroys the myelin and, to a lesser extent, the axons in affected regions.
Symptoms vary widely depending on the location and severity of the plaques but often involve areas such as the brainstem, cerebellum (which controls balance and coordination), spinal cord, optic nerves, and white matter surrounding fluid-filled brain cavities called ventricles. The course of MS is unpredictable; some individuals experience mild symptoms with little disability, while others face progressive worsening. Most patients experience episodes of symptoms followed by periods of recovery, though the degree of recovery can vary. Women are more commonly affected by MS than men are, and while the disease rarely shortens life expectancy, it can significantly affect quality of life.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Diagnosis
Diagnosing MS is complex, as no single test can confirm the disease definitively. Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tools to exclude other conditions. Doctors begin with a detailed medical history, neurological examination, and symptom assessment. MRI is crucial, revealing characteristic lesions or plaques in the brain and spinal cord. A contrast agent may be used to highlight active inflammation. Additional tests include lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for specific proteins and inflammation, and evoked potential tests that measure the brain’s electrical responses to sensory stimuli. Visual pathway assessments, like optic nerve MRI and visual evoked potentials may also support diagnosis. MS diagnosis is based on evidence of lesions in multiple areas of the CNS and episodes over time, alongside signs of chronic inflammation in the CSF. Careful differentiation from other neurological conditions with similar symptoms is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Further details related to diagnosis are provided in the report…
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Epidemiology
The MS epidemiology chapter in the report provides historical as well as forecasted epidemiology segmented by total diagnosed prevalent cases of MS, gender-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of MS, phenotype-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of MS and EDSS-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in the 7MM covering, the United States, EU4 countries (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan from 2020 to 2034.
DelveInsight estimates that in 2024, the diagnosed prevalent cases of MS across the 7MM totaled approximately 1.6 million. This figure is projected to grow steadily over the forecast period (2025–2034), reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.5%, driven by improved diagnostic capabilities, increased disease awareness, and aging populations.
According to DelveInsight’s 2024 estimates, the US had approximately 926 thousand diagnosed prevalent cases of MS. The overwhelming majority—around 921 thousand cases—were in adults, while pediatric cases accounted for a small fraction, with about 5 thousand individuals affected.
In 2024, around 74% of diagnosed MS cases in the US were female, compared to 26% in males, highlighting a strong gender disparity. This trend underscores the influence of biological factors and the need for gender-informed research and care strategies.
In 2024, EU4 and the UK reported the highest number of MS cases in the RRMS subtype, totaling approximately 490 thousand. This reflects the dominance of RRMS as the most commonly diagnosed MS phenotype in these regions, highlighting both improved early detection and the clinical prominence of relapsing disease patterns.
In 2024, approximately 17 thousand diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in Japan fell within the 0–2.5 range on the EDSS, representing about 49% of all cases.
KOL Views
DelveInsight’s analysts collaborated with over 50 key opinion leaders (KOLs), conducting in-depth interviews with more than 30 experts across the 7MM. To keep pace with dynamic market trends, the team gathered first-hand insights from KOLs and subject matter experts (SMEs) through primary research, addressing data limitations and reinforcing findings from secondary research. These professionals offered valuable input on the MS landscape, highlighting patient behavior trends, and challenges in access to care. Contributors included experts from renowned institutions such as the University of California San Francisco (US), University of Maryland (US), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (US), Charité University (Germany), University of Lille (France), University of Florence (Italy), Loyola University (Spain), University College London (UK) and Tohoku University (Japan), among others.
As per the KOLs from the US, differentiating progressive forms of MS from RRMS remains a major clinical challenge. Enhancing early identification of individuals at risk of transitioning to secondary progressive MS is essential for improving diagnostic accuracy and understanding disease progression.
As per the KOLs from the France, MS is an increasing public health concern in France, with prevalence rates steadily rising in recent years. The disease primarily affects women and often begins in early adulthood. National data and research emphasize its substantial impact on patients' quality of life, progression of disability, and higher mortality risk compared to the general population.
As per the KOLs from Japan, the prevalence of MS in Japan has historically been lower compared to Western countries, likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. However, recent trends indicate a rise in MS prevalence, suggesting a potential shift in environmental influences, such as lifestyle changes and migration patterns, contributing to this increasing burden. Longitudinal studies in regions like Tokachi offer valuable insights into these evolving epidemiological patterns and their underlying causes.
Scope of the Report
The report covers a segment of executive summary, descriptive overview of MS, explaining its causes, signs and symptoms, and currently available diagnostic algorithms and guidelines.
Comprehensive insight has been provided into the epidemiology segments and forecasts, the future growth potential of diagnosis rate, disease progression, and diagnosis guidelines.
The report provides an edge for understanding trends, expert insights/KOL views, and patient journeys in the 7MM.
A detailed review of current challenges in establishing the diagnosis.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Report Insights
Patient Population
Country-wise Epidemiology Distribution
MS Pipeline Analysis
Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS
Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS
Phenotype-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS
EDSS-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Report Key Strengths
10 years Forecast
The 7MM Coverage
Key Cross Competition
Key Questions
Epidemiology Insights
What are the disease risk, burden, and unmet needs of multiple sclerosis (MS)?
What is the historical multiple sclerosis (MS) patient population in the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan?
What would be the forecasted patient population of multiple sclerosis (MS) at the 7MM level?
What will be the growth opportunities across the 7MM with respect to the patient population pertaining to multiple sclerosis (MS)?
Out of the above-mentioned countries, which country would have the highest prevalent population of multiple sclerosis (MS) during the forecast period (2025–2034)?
At what Compound annual growth rate (CAGR) the population is expected to grow across the 7MM during the forecast period (2025–2034)?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to Buy
Insights on patient burden/disease prevalent, evolution in diagnosis, and factors contributing to the change in the epidemiology of the disease during the forecast years.
To analyze epidemiological trends of multiple sclerosis (MS) across different regions and assess how these patterns may evolve in the coming years.
Distribution of historical and current patient share based on real-world prescription data along with reported sales of approved products in the US, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the UK, and Japan.
Detailed insights on various factors hampering disease diagnosis and other existing diagnostic challenges.
To understand the perspective of key opinion leaders (KOL) around the current challenges with establishing the diagnosis options.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the forecast period covered in the report?
The multiple sclerosis (MS) epidemiology report for the 7MM covers the forecast period from 2025 to 2034, providing a projection of epidemiology dynamics and trends during this timeframe.
2. Out of all EU4 countries and the UK, which country had the highest population of multiple sclerosis (MS) cases in 2023?
The highest cases of multiple sclerosis (MS) were found in Germany among EU4 and the UK in 2024.
3. How is epidemiological data collected and analyzed for forecasting purposes?
Epidemiological data is collected through surveys, clinical studies, health records, and other sources. It is then analyzed to calculate disease rates, identify trends, and project future disease burdens using mathematical models.
4. Out of all 7MM countries, which country had the highest population of multiple sclerosis (MS) cases in 2024?
The highest cases of multiple sclerosis (MS) were found in the US among the 7MM in 2024.
According to DelveInsight’s estimates, diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in the 7MM were around 1.6 million in 2024.
DelveInsight estimates that in 2024, there were about 926 thousand total diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in the US, with approximately 5 thousand cases occurring in the pediatric population and the majority—around 921 thousand —affecting adults.
In 2024, the diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in EU4 and the UK showed a clear gender disparity, with approximately 205 thousand cases in males and 490 thousand in females. These numbers are projected to increase over the forecast period (2025–2034).
In 2024, Germany recorded the highest number of MS cases across EU4 and the UK, with approximately 257 thousand cases. It also reported the highest number of cases specifically in the Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) phenotype.
In 2024, most diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in Japan were concentrated in the lower range of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), with around 17 thousand patients falling within the 0–2.5 score category.
Accurate MS diagnosis is hindered by nonspecific symptoms, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) overinterpretation, and inconsistent criteria application. Limited patient and provider awareness, along with restricted specialist access cause misdiagnoses. Enhancing clinician training, specialist availability, and diagnostic tools is critical for timely diagnosis.
The chronic nature of MS can lead to mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, with societal stigma further exacerbating psychological distress and social isolation.
DelveInsight’s “Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – Epidemiology Forecast – 2034” report delivers an in-depth understanding of MS, historical and forecasted epidemiology trends in the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan.
Geography Covered
The United States
EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom
Japan
Study Period: 2020–2034
Disease Understanding
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Overview
MS is the most common neurological disorder, affecting adults, typically appearing between the ages of 20 and 40. It is a chronic condition that impacts the central nervous system (CNS) by targeting the axons, which are nerve fibers protected by a fatty substance called myelin, primarily found in the brain’s white matter. MS causes damage to both the nerve cell bodies in the brain’s gray matter and the axons in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves, which transmit visual information from the eyes to the brain. As the disease advances, it can lead to shrinkage of the brain’s outer layer, known as the cerebral cortex.
The hallmark of MS is the formation of scar tissue, called sclerosis or plaques, which result from the immune system mistakenly attacking the myelin. These plaques appear as lesions that can vary in size and are detectable through MRI in both white and gray matter areas of the brain and spinal cord. During MS flare-ups, inflammation caused by immune cells damages or destroys the myelin and, to a lesser extent, the axons in affected regions.
Symptoms vary widely depending on the location and severity of the plaques but often involve areas such as the brainstem, cerebellum (which controls balance and coordination), spinal cord, optic nerves, and white matter surrounding fluid-filled brain cavities called ventricles. The course of MS is unpredictable; some individuals experience mild symptoms with little disability, while others face progressive worsening. Most patients experience episodes of symptoms followed by periods of recovery, though the degree of recovery can vary. Women are more commonly affected by MS than men are, and while the disease rarely shortens life expectancy, it can significantly affect quality of life.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Diagnosis
Diagnosing MS is complex, as no single test can confirm the disease definitively. Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tools to exclude other conditions. Doctors begin with a detailed medical history, neurological examination, and symptom assessment. MRI is crucial, revealing characteristic lesions or plaques in the brain and spinal cord. A contrast agent may be used to highlight active inflammation. Additional tests include lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for specific proteins and inflammation, and evoked potential tests that measure the brain’s electrical responses to sensory stimuli. Visual pathway assessments, like optic nerve MRI and visual evoked potentials may also support diagnosis. MS diagnosis is based on evidence of lesions in multiple areas of the CNS and episodes over time, alongside signs of chronic inflammation in the CSF. Careful differentiation from other neurological conditions with similar symptoms is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Further details related to diagnosis are provided in the report…
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Epidemiology
The MS epidemiology chapter in the report provides historical as well as forecasted epidemiology segmented by total diagnosed prevalent cases of MS, gender-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of MS, phenotype-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of MS and EDSS-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in the 7MM covering, the United States, EU4 countries (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan from 2020 to 2034.
DelveInsight estimates that in 2024, the diagnosed prevalent cases of MS across the 7MM totaled approximately 1.6 million. This figure is projected to grow steadily over the forecast period (2025–2034), reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.5%, driven by improved diagnostic capabilities, increased disease awareness, and aging populations.
According to DelveInsight’s 2024 estimates, the US had approximately 926 thousand diagnosed prevalent cases of MS. The overwhelming majority—around 921 thousand cases—were in adults, while pediatric cases accounted for a small fraction, with about 5 thousand individuals affected.
In 2024, around 74% of diagnosed MS cases in the US were female, compared to 26% in males, highlighting a strong gender disparity. This trend underscores the influence of biological factors and the need for gender-informed research and care strategies.
In 2024, EU4 and the UK reported the highest number of MS cases in the RRMS subtype, totaling approximately 490 thousand. This reflects the dominance of RRMS as the most commonly diagnosed MS phenotype in these regions, highlighting both improved early detection and the clinical prominence of relapsing disease patterns.
In 2024, approximately 17 thousand diagnosed prevalent cases of MS in Japan fell within the 0–2.5 range on the EDSS, representing about 49% of all cases.
KOL Views
DelveInsight’s analysts collaborated with over 50 key opinion leaders (KOLs), conducting in-depth interviews with more than 30 experts across the 7MM. To keep pace with dynamic market trends, the team gathered first-hand insights from KOLs and subject matter experts (SMEs) through primary research, addressing data limitations and reinforcing findings from secondary research. These professionals offered valuable input on the MS landscape, highlighting patient behavior trends, and challenges in access to care. Contributors included experts from renowned institutions such as the University of California San Francisco (US), University of Maryland (US), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (US), Charité University (Germany), University of Lille (France), University of Florence (Italy), Loyola University (Spain), University College London (UK) and Tohoku University (Japan), among others.
As per the KOLs from the US, differentiating progressive forms of MS from RRMS remains a major clinical challenge. Enhancing early identification of individuals at risk of transitioning to secondary progressive MS is essential for improving diagnostic accuracy and understanding disease progression.
As per the KOLs from the France, MS is an increasing public health concern in France, with prevalence rates steadily rising in recent years. The disease primarily affects women and often begins in early adulthood. National data and research emphasize its substantial impact on patients' quality of life, progression of disability, and higher mortality risk compared to the general population.
As per the KOLs from Japan, the prevalence of MS in Japan has historically been lower compared to Western countries, likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. However, recent trends indicate a rise in MS prevalence, suggesting a potential shift in environmental influences, such as lifestyle changes and migration patterns, contributing to this increasing burden. Longitudinal studies in regions like Tokachi offer valuable insights into these evolving epidemiological patterns and their underlying causes.
Scope of the Report
The report covers a segment of executive summary, descriptive overview of MS, explaining its causes, signs and symptoms, and currently available diagnostic algorithms and guidelines.
Comprehensive insight has been provided into the epidemiology segments and forecasts, the future growth potential of diagnosis rate, disease progression, and diagnosis guidelines.
The report provides an edge for understanding trends, expert insights/KOL views, and patient journeys in the 7MM.
A detailed review of current challenges in establishing the diagnosis.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Report Insights
Patient Population
Country-wise Epidemiology Distribution
MS Pipeline Analysis
Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS
Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS
Phenotype-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS
EDSS-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Report Key Strengths
10 years Forecast
The 7MM Coverage
Key Cross Competition
Key Questions
Epidemiology Insights
What are the disease risk, burden, and unmet needs of multiple sclerosis (MS)?
What is the historical multiple sclerosis (MS) patient population in the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan?
What would be the forecasted patient population of multiple sclerosis (MS) at the 7MM level?
What will be the growth opportunities across the 7MM with respect to the patient population pertaining to multiple sclerosis (MS)?
Out of the above-mentioned countries, which country would have the highest prevalent population of multiple sclerosis (MS) during the forecast period (2025–2034)?
At what Compound annual growth rate (CAGR) the population is expected to grow across the 7MM during the forecast period (2025–2034)?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to Buy
Insights on patient burden/disease prevalent, evolution in diagnosis, and factors contributing to the change in the epidemiology of the disease during the forecast years.
To analyze epidemiological trends of multiple sclerosis (MS) across different regions and assess how these patterns may evolve in the coming years.
Distribution of historical and current patient share based on real-world prescription data along with reported sales of approved products in the US, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the UK, and Japan.
Detailed insights on various factors hampering disease diagnosis and other existing diagnostic challenges.
To understand the perspective of key opinion leaders (KOL) around the current challenges with establishing the diagnosis options.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the forecast period covered in the report?
The multiple sclerosis (MS) epidemiology report for the 7MM covers the forecast period from 2025 to 2034, providing a projection of epidemiology dynamics and trends during this timeframe.
2. Out of all EU4 countries and the UK, which country had the highest population of multiple sclerosis (MS) cases in 2023?
The highest cases of multiple sclerosis (MS) were found in Germany among EU4 and the UK in 2024.
3. How is epidemiological data collected and analyzed for forecasting purposes?
Epidemiological data is collected through surveys, clinical studies, health records, and other sources. It is then analyzed to calculate disease rates, identify trends, and project future disease burdens using mathematical models.
4. Out of all 7MM countries, which country had the highest population of multiple sclerosis (MS) cases in 2024?
The highest cases of multiple sclerosis (MS) were found in the US among the 7MM in 2024.
Table of Contents
168 Pages
- 1. Key Insights
- 2. Report Introduction
- 3. MS Epidemiology Overview at a Glance
- 3.1. Patient Share (%) Distribution of MS in 2020
- 3.2. Patient Share (%) Distribution of MS in 2034
- 4. Epidemiology Forecast Methodology
- 5. Executive Summary
- 6. Disease Background and Overview
- 6.1. Introduction
- 6.2. Clinical Manifestation
- 6.3. Risk Factors
- 6.4. Prognosis
- 6.5. Diagnosis
- 6.5.1. Diagnostic Guidelines
- 6.5.2. Differential Diagnosis
- 7. Patient Journey
- 8. Epidemiology and Patient Population
- 8.1. Key Findings
- 8.2. Assumptions and Rationale: the 7MM
- 8.2.1. Diagnosed Prevalence of MS
- 8.2.2. Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalence of MS
- 8.2.3. Phenotype-specific Diagnosed Prevalence of MS
- 8.2.4. EDSS-specific Diagnosed Prevalence of MS
- 8.3. . Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in the 7MM
- 8.4. The United States
- 8.4.1. Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in the US
- 8.4.2. Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in the US
- 8.4.3. Phenotype-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in the US
- 8.4.4. EDSS-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in the US
- 8.5. EU4 and the UK
- 8.5.1. Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in EU4 and the UK
- 8.5.2. Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in EU4 and the UK
- 8.5.3. Phenotype-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in EU4 and the UK
- 8.5.4. EDSS-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in EU4 and the UK
- 8.6. Japan
- 8.6.1. Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in Japan
- 8.6.2. Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in Japan
- 8.6.3. Phenotype-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in Japan
- 8.6.4. EDSS-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of MS in Japan
- 9. KOL Opinion Leaders’ Views
- 10. Appendix
- 10.1. Bibliography
- 10.2. Acronyms and Abbreviations
- 10.3. Report Methodology
- 11. DelveInsight Capabilities
- 12. Disclaimer
- 13. About DelveInsight
Pricing
Currency Rates
Questions or Comments?
Our team has the ability to search within reports to verify it suits your needs. We can also help maximize your budget by finding sections of reports you can purchase.
