Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurological condition that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. It is estimated that ALS affects approximately 5 out of 100,000 individuals each year in the United States, out of the total population of about 330 million people. Globally, it is estimated to affect approximately 2.5 million people, with an estimated 5,000–6,000 new cases diagnosed each year.
ALS is more common in certain ethnic groups than others. For example, the incidence of ALS is two to three times higher among white Americans than among African Americans. It is also more common among men than women.
ALS is a progressive disease, meaning that it gets worse over time. It can be very difficult to diagnose ALS, as its symptoms can mimic other conditions, such as muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis. As a result, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the common symptoms associated with ALS, such as muscle twitching or weakness, difficulty using the hands or feet, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and weight loss.
In addition to seeking medical attention, there are a few steps that you can take to help manage your symptoms and slow the progression of ALS. These include exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and participating in physical and occupational therapy. There is no known cure for ALS, but there are a variety of treatments available to help slow down its progression and manage its symptoms.
