Multiple sclerosis in Belgium, 2022: a national burden of disease assessment

Abstract Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory disease of the central nervous system leading to progressive disability. Due to its long-term impact on individuals and the need for continuous care, MS poses considerable challenges for healthcare systems. Accurate burden estimates are crucial for evidence-based decision-making and resource allocation. As part of the Belgian national burden of disease study (BeBOD), this study aims to estimate the burden of MS in Belgium using nationally representative data. Methods We estimated the burden of MS in Belgium in terms of prevalence, deaths, years lived with disability (YLD), years of life lost (YLL), and disability-adjusted life years (DALY). In the absence of a comprehensive national prevalence dataset, we evaluated local and national data sources based on their specificity and sensitivity. Prevalence estimates were combined with disability weights to calculate YLDs. YLLs were computed using the most recent Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 reference life table and the number of MS-related deaths (ICD-10 code G35) from Statbel, the Belgian statistical office. Results A sentinel network of general practitioners was identified as the most suitable data source, estimating MS prevalence at 0.19%. The non-fatal burden of MS was 79 YLD per 100,000, and YLL was 48 per 100,000. We estimated 14,732 DALYs caused by MS in 2022, of which 62% were due to YLD and 38% due to YLL. Our MS burden estimates for Belgium were higher than those of GBD, likely because their Belgian data rely on a single, older study from the early 1990s. Conclusions In Belgium, MS accounted for an estimated 14,732 DALYs in 2022, with a slightly higher contribution from morbidity than mortality. These findings underline the impact of MS on both quality of life and life expectancy. Using locally sourced data offers a more context-specific view than global estimates and can support evidence-based planning and resource allocation. Key messages • MS causes a substantial burden through both disability and premature mortality, reflecting its chronic and progressive nature. • National MS burden estimates support informed health policy and resource planning.