Who is most likely to develop ALS? Can ALS be transmitted?

The risk of developing ALS increases with age and is higher for men than women. ALS is not contagious and cannot be transmitted. ALS can affect any part of the body, but it often starts in the hands, feet, arms, or legs.

The disease can affect anyone and it commonly affects people of any racial or ethnic group between the ages of 40 and 70. Established risk factors for ALS include genetics, male gender, advanced age, and exposure to air pollution and certain environmental toxins.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a rare progressive neurological disease that affects the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement.

However, as the disease progresses, patients may experience difficulty speaking, swallowing, and performing everyday tasks. Respiratory muscles may also be affected, resulting in breathing difficulties and respiratory failure.

The treatment of ALS aims to slow down the disease progression, prevent complications, and improve the quality of life of people living with ALS.