The chances of getting ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) are very slim. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that in the United States, about 15 out of every 100,000 people have the disease, which is roughly 6,000 to 6,500 people. It is estimated that about 5% of ALS cases are inherited, while the rest are sporadic, meaning the cause of the disease is unknown.
Most people who get ALS are between the ages of 40 and 70, although it can occur in younger people as well. The risk of developing ALS increases with age, and is more common in men than in women. It is also more common in people of Caucasian descent than in other ethnic backgrounds.
There are a number of factors that can increase your risk of developing ALS, such as having a family history of the disease, having a job that exposes you to toxins or certain chemicals, and smoking. However, even with all of these risk factors, it is still very rare to develop the disease.
The best way to reduce your risk of developing ALS is to lead a healthy lifestyle. Eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all help to lower your risk. It is also important to get regular check-ups and follow your doctor’s instructions for any health concerns.
In conclusion, while the risk of getting ALS is very low, it is important to be aware of the risk factors and to take steps to reduce them by leading a healthy lifestyle.