The precise cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains unclear, with various potential factors leading to maladaptive neuroinflammation at motor neurons and other sites. While ALS typically appears in later life, the exact relationship between aging and the disease onset is uncertain. Aging is associated with increased neuroinflammation, suggesting that conditions involving localized inflammation may be more severe in later life.
ALS is a rare, progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle movement loss, paralysis, and ultimately, death. The average life expectancy post-diagnosis ranges from two to five years. A study of 373,696 individuals in Norway revealed that 504 developed ALS, with 59% being male participants.
Participants categorized into sedentary, light activity, moderate activity, and high activity levels showed that those with higher physical activity had a lower risk of ALS. Specifically, men with moderate and high activity levels had a 29% and 41% lower risk, respectively. Reduced risk was also linked to lower resting heart rates, indicating good physical fitness.
