Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the nerve cells (neurons) responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. It causes the death of neurons that control movement, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis and eventually death. Symptoms include muscle weakness, twitching, cramping, and difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing. ALS is the most common form of motor neuron disease, affecting approximately 2 in 100,000 people worldwide. Despite ongoing research, the cause of ALS is still unknown and there is currently no cure. However, treatments are available to help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the illness.