Tracers for Paralysis Agitans in Epidemiological Research

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Abstract
This study is a time series analysis of the utilization of L-dopa derivatives (LDD) and bromocriptine by parkinsonism (PA) patients and of the age-specific PA prevalences estimated by using a previously reported model. The model combines information on LDD sales, infant mortality rates (IMR) and demographic data for Sweden during the period 1974-1984. Valid yearly prevalence estimates were obtained since 1980 when the early increments of LDD sales were less than 7.9% and the early introduction of bromocriptine in the treatment of PA had already occurred. The crude PA prevalence calculated for 1984 was 254.8 per 100,000. The precision of the estimates during the period 1980-1984 was 2.6%. The model monitored the age-specific prevalence of PA in Sweden during that period, giving increasing figures for the age group 70 years and older, and was not especially sensitive to any particular type of inaccurate input. Time trend analyses of yearly estimates for populations higher than 100,000 individuals and of LDD diffusion are recommended when using this model.

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