Understanding ALS: Causes, Variants, and Key Facts

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurological disorder that gradually destroys motor neurons, the nerve cells responsible for voluntary muscle movements. These neurons reside in the spinal cord and brain, transmitting signals that enable actions like walking, speaking, and facial expressions. As ALS advances, these neurons degenerate and die, interrupting communication with muscles, leading to muscle weakness and wasting. Ultimately, ALS impacts all voluntary muscles, causing loss of movement and control. While some individuals live over a decade post-diagnosis, most survive 3-5 years after initial symptoms. ALS affects approximately 2-5 people per 100,000 globally. Notably, physicist Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with ALS in his youth and defied expectations by living over 50 years with the disease.

Types of ALS include sporadic and familial forms. Sporadic ALS occurs randomly and accounts for 90-95% of cases, whereas familial ALS is inherited, comprising about 5-10%. Having a parent with ALS increases a child's risk by 50%. Causes of ALS remain unclear, but several factors are linked to its development. Genetic mutations can contribute to inherited cases, although this is rare. An imbalance of chemicals like glutamate, which can be toxic in excess, is observed in patients. Additionally, immune system malfunctions may attack nerve cells, while abnormal protein buildup within nerve tissues can also play a role in the disease process. Support groups and resources can assist patients and families coping with ALS’s physical and emotional challenges.