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Abstract Details

Prevalence of Depression in Multiple Sclerosis in Latin America and the Caribbean: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Multiple Sclerosis
P11 - Poster Session 11 (11:45 AM-12:45 PM)
20-008
To estimate pooled depression prevalence in MS across Latin America and the Caribbean. 
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease often associated with depression, which exacerbates disability and lowers quality of life. In Latin America and the Caribbean, this comorbidity remains understudied, despite healthcare disparities, stigma, and socioeconomic barriers that hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. Regional data synthesis is essential to inform public health policies and improve care. 
A systematic search was performed in PubMed, LILACS, and SCIELO to identify studies published up to March 2025 that assessed depression prevalence in Latin American MS populations. Studies were included if they reported or allowed calculation of depression prevalence among MS patients. A single-arm meta-analysis using a random-effects model was conducted, with statistical analysis of heterogeneity and publications bias in addition to certainty assessment. 

Fifteen studies from nine countries were included, comprising 518 MS patients with depression of 1317 participants. Sample sizes ranged from 26 to 314 participants. Mean ages varied between 33.4 and 43 years, with a predominance of female participants. The pooled prevalence of depression in Latin America and the Caribbean was 39% (95% CI, 32%–46%), higher than the global average of 30.5%, with the highest country-specific estimates in Cuba and the lowest in Brazil and Colombia. Most studies were rated high quality (66.7%), and the overall certainty of evidence was judged moderate.
Depression appears more prevalent among MS patients in Latin America compared to global estimates, highlighting the need for targeted mental health strategies in the region.
Authors/Disclosures
Meiling M. Carbajal Galarza, MD
PRESENTER 		Miss Carbajal Galarza has nothing to disclose.
Irving G. Calisaya-Madariaga, Sr. (Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia) Mr. Calisaya-Madariaga has nothing to disclose.
daniel vera grandez, MD Dr. vera grandez has nothing to disclose.
Roberto Alejandro Cruz, MD (DHR Health Neurology Institute) The institution of Dr. Cruz has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving on a Scientific Advisory or Data Safety Monitoring board for AMGEN. The institution of Dr. Cruz has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving on a Scientific Advisory or Data Safety Monitoring board for ALEXION. The institution of Dr. Cruz has received personal compensation in the range of $5,000-$9,999 for serving on a Speakers Bureau for AMGEN. The institution of Dr. Cruz has received personal compensation in the range of $5,000-$9,999 for serving on a Speakers Bureau for Alexion.
Carlos Alva-Diaz Carlos Alva-Diaz has nothing to disclose.