What causes ALS? |
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ALS affects the motor neurons that send signals from the brain to the spinal cord to voluntary muscles throughout the body. As ALS causes these motor neurons to deteriorate and eventually die, signals are disrupted and muscles weaken and atrophy.
Up to 10% of all cases of ALS are familial, which means that a genetic mutation is the cause. The other 90% or more of cases are considered sporadic, which means there is no known genetic cause.
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Sporadic ALS
Researchers do not know what causes sporadic ALS, but they continue to make progress investigating the most promising theories. Though no direct associations have been established, some researchers suspect that some cases of sporadic ALS could be caused by:
As far as risk factors, research indicates that smoking increases one’s chances of developing ALS. Studies also show that, for unknown reasons, military veterans have a higher likelihood of developing ALS. Researchers are investigating whether strenuous physical activity and head trauma are risk factors as well.
- Exposure to environmental toxins such as blue-green algae or heavy metals
- Abnormalities and imbalances in certain cells, molecules, or chemicals
- A virus
As far as risk factors, research indicates that smoking increases one’s chances of developing ALS. Studies also show that, for unknown reasons, military veterans have a higher likelihood of developing ALS. Researchers are investigating whether strenuous physical activity and head trauma are risk factors as well.
Familial ALS
Scientists have identified several gene mutations that have been linked to the development of ALS. According to the ALS Therapy Development Institute, a child of a parent with familial ALS has a 50% chance of developing the disease.
If you are concerned that you might have familial ALS and could pass it on to a child, you can speak with your ALS neurologist about the possibility of genetic testing and/or visiting a genetic counselor. Genetic testing can provide valuable information for some families, but yield inconclusive results for others. Not everyone will want to know this information, and genetic testing can be expensive. Learn more about genetic testing from the ALS Association.
Researchers continue to investigate and conduct clinical trials in order to identify the cause of ALS—and ultimately find a cure.
If you are concerned that you might have familial ALS and could pass it on to a child, you can speak with your ALS neurologist about the possibility of genetic testing and/or visiting a genetic counselor. Genetic testing can provide valuable information for some families, but yield inconclusive results for others. Not everyone will want to know this information, and genetic testing can be expensive. Learn more about genetic testing from the ALS Association.
Researchers continue to investigate and conduct clinical trials in order to identify the cause of ALS—and ultimately find a cure.
