Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) also known as
Lou Gehrigs disease is a condition that affects the
motor neurons, in the brain and spinal cord. It
results in paralysis, muscle weakness and
respiratory failure. This essay aims to explore the
causes, prevalence, symptoms, diagnosis,
treatments and outlook of ALS with a focus on its
impact on the system.
Causes: The exact cause of ALS remains unknown
although several factors have been linked to its
origins. Genetic mutations in genes like SOD1,
C9orf72 and TARDBP have been found in cases of
ALS indicating a predisposition. Environmental
influences such as exposure to toxins and heavy
metals may also contribute to cases of ALS (Mehta
et al., 2022). Dysfunctions in processes like protein
aggregation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial
dysfunction likely play a role in the progression of
ALS by causing degeneration of motor neurons.
Prevalence: With an estimated prevalence rate of
2 to 3 cases, per 100,000 individuals ALS is
considered a rare disease. It typically manifests
between ages forty and seventy. Can occur at any
