1
|
Vaage AM, Meyer HE, Landgraff IK, Myrstad M, Holmøy T, Nakken O. Physical Activity, Fitness, and Long-Term Risk of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Prospective Cohort Study. Neurology 2024; 103:e209575. [PMID: 38924713 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Observational studies have demonstrated an increased amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) risk among professional athletes in various sports. For moderately increased levels of physical activity and fitness, the results are diverging. Through a cohort study, we aimed to assess the relationship between indicators of physical activity and fitness (self-reported physical activity and resting heart rate) and long-term ALS risk. METHODS From a large Norwegian cardiovascular health survey (1985-1999), we collected information on self-reported physical activity in leisure time, resting heart rate, and other cardiovascular risk factors. Patients with ALS were identified through health registries covering the whole population. We fitted Cox proportional hazard models to assess the risk of ALS according to levels of self-reported physical activity in 3 categories (1: sedentary; 2: minimum 4 hours per week of walking or cycling; 3: minimum 4 hours per week of recreational sports or hard training), and resting heart rate modeled both on the continuous scale and as quartiles of distribution. RESULTS Out of 373,696 study participants (mean 40.9 [SD 1.1] years at inclusion), 504 (41.2% women) developed ALS during a mean follow-up time of 27.2 (SD 5.0) years. Compared with participants with the lowest level of physical activity, the hazard ratio was 0.71 (95% CI 0.53-0.95) for those with the highest level. There were no clear associations between resting heart rate and ALS in the total sample. In men, the hazard ratio of ALS was 0.71 (95% CI 0.53-0.95) for those reporting moderate levels of physical activity and 0.59 (95% CI 0.42-0.84) for those reporting high levels, compared with those reporting low levels. Men with resting heart rate in the lowest quartile had 32% reduced risk of ALS (hazard ratio 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.94) compared with those in the second highest quartile. In women, no association was detected between neither self-reported levels of physical activity nor resting heart rate and ALS risk. DISCUSSION Indicators of high levels of physical activity and fitness are associated with a reduced risk of ALS more than 30 years later in men, but not in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anders M Vaage
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Haakon E Meyer
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Ida K Landgraff
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Marius Myrstad
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Trygve Holmøy
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Ola Nakken
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zamani A, Thomas E, Wright DK. Sex biology in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 95:102228. [PMID: 38354985 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Although sex differences in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have not been studied systematically, numerous clinical and preclinical studies have shown sex to be influential in disease prognosis. Moreover, with the development of advanced imaging tools, the difference between male and female brain in structure and function and their response to neurodegeneration are more definitive. As discussed in this review, ALS patients exhibit a sex bias pertaining to the features of the disease, and their clinical, pathological, (and pathophysiological) phenotypes. Several epidemiological studies have indicated that this sex disparity stems from various aetiologies, including sex-specific brain structure and neural functioning, genetic predisposition, age, gonadal hormones, susceptibility to traumatic brain injury (TBI)/head trauma and lifestyle factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akram Zamani
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia.
| | - Emma Thomas
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - David K Wright
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhu Q, Zhou J, Zhang Y, Huang H, Han J, Cao B, Xu D, Zhao Y, Chen G. Risk factors associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis based on the observational study: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1196722. [PMID: 37284659 PMCID: PMC10239956 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1196722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder affecting the upper and lower motor neurons. Though the pathogenesis of ALS is still unclear, exploring the associations between risk factors and ALS can provide reliable evidence to find the pathogenesis. This meta-analysis aims to synthesize all related risk factors of ALS to understand this disease comprehensively. Methods We searched the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and Scopus. Moreover, observational studies, including cohort studies, and case-control studies, were included in this meta-analysis. Results A total of 36 eligible observational studies were included, and 10 of them were cohort studies and the rest were case-control studies. We found six factors exacerbated the progression of disease: head trauma (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.13, 1.40), physical activity (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.09), electric shock (OR = 2.72, 95% CI = 1.62, 4.56), military service (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.11, 1.61), pesticides (OR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.7, 2.26), and lead exposure (OR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.44, 3.71). Of note, type 2 diabetes mellitus was a protective factor for ALS. However, cerebrovascular disease (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.75, 1.29), agriculture (OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 0.74, 1.99), industry (OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 0.81, 1.91), service (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.19, 1.17), smoking (OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 0.5, 3.09), chemicals (OR = 2.45, 95% CI = 0.89, 6.77), and heavy metal (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 0.47, 4.84) were not risk factors for ALS based on meta-analyses. Conclusions Head trauma, physical activity, electric shock, military service, pesticides, and lead were risk factors for ALS onset and progression. But DM was a protective factor. This finding provides a better understanding of ALS risk factors with strong evidence for clinicians to rationalize clinical intervention strategies. INPLSY registration number https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-9-0118/, INPLASY202290118.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiaochu Zhu
- Department of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yijie Zhang
- School of Sports Medicine, Wuhan Sports University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hai Huang
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Han
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Biwei Cao
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Dandan Xu
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of Tuina and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nicoletti A, Baschi R, Cicero CE, Iacono S, Re VL, Luca A, Schirò G, Monastero R. Sex and gender differences in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: a narrative review. Mech Ageing Dev 2023; 212:111821. [PMID: 37127082 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2023.111821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), exhibit high phenotypic variability and they are very common in the general population. These diseases are associated with poor prognosis and a significant burden on patients and their caregivers. Although increasing evidence suggests that biological sex is an important factor for the development and phenotypical expression of some NDs, the role of sex and gender in the diagnosis and prognosis of NDs has been poorly explored. Current knowledge relating to sex- and gender-related differences in the epidemiology, clinical features, biomarkers, and treatment of AD, PD, and ALS will be summarized in this narrative review. The cumulative evidence hitherto collected suggests that sex and gender are factors to be considered in explaining the heterogeneity of these NDs. Clarifying the role of sex and gender in AD, PD, and ALS is a key topic in precision medicine, which will facilitate sex-specific prevention and treatment strategies to be implemented in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Nicoletti
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| | - Roberta Baschi
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via La Loggia 1, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Calogero Edoardo Cicero
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Iacono
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via La Loggia 1, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzina Lo Re
- Neurology Service, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Via Ernesto Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy; Women's Brain Project, Guntershausen, Switzerland
| | - Antonina Luca
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Schirò
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via La Loggia 1, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto Monastero
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via La Loggia 1, 90129 Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zheng X, Wang S, Huang J, Lin J, Yang T, Xiao Y, Jiang Q, Huang R, Li C, Shang H. Physical activity as risk factor in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol 2023; 270:2438-2450. [PMID: 36670248 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11555-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder with rapid progression and high mortality. Physical activity (PA) has been identified as a major risk factor for ALS. However, the results across studies are still controversial. We aimed to explore the association between different types of PA and ALS. METHODS The PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane and Web of Science databases were systematically searched for case-control and cohort studies which explored the relationship between PA and ALS from inception to October 2022. The data were analyzed to generate a pooled effect and 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS A total of 16,686 articles were included in the systematic search. After filtering, 28 studies from online database and 6 studies from references of relevant articles remained in the analysis. Individuals with a history of vigorous physical activity (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.06-1.49), occupational-related activity (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04-1.25), leisure time activity (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04-1.12), unclassified PA (OR 1.05 95% CI 1.02-1.09) and professional athletes (SMR 5.23, 95% CI 2.67-10.25; SIR 2.54, 95% CI 1.37-4.69) were in higher risk of developing ALS. In contrast, sport-related activity (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.76-1.26) was not associated with ALS. CONCLUSIONS Vigorous physical activity, occupational-related activity, leisure time activity, unclassified PA and professional athletes were associated with a higher risk of ALS, while sport-related activity showed no association with ALS. Our findings clarified the relation between different types of PA and ALS and provided some practicable advice for the lifestyle of high-risk populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Shichan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingxuan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Junyu Lin
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Tianmi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qirui Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Chunyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Huifang Shang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sznajder J, Barć K, Kuźma-Kozakiewicz M. Physical activity in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Prevalence, patients’ perspectives and relation to the motor performance. NeuroRehabilitation 2022; 50:433-443. [DOI: 10.3233/nre-210312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: There are no recommendations for physical activity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. OBJECTIVE: (i) To describe the prevalence and pattern of physical activity (PA) in ALS patients; (ii) to explore patients’ attitude towards PA; and (iii) to investigate the relationship between PA at home environment and the rate of functional decline. METHODS: 96 ALS patients were followed for 6 months at 3-month intervals and assessed by site of disease onset, disease duration, diagnosis delay, functional status, muscle strength, fatigue and prevalence of PA. RESULTS: Over 70% of patients performed regular exercise and reported a positive effect of PA on functional status and mood. Regularly exercising individuals showed a higher ALSFRS-R bulbar score (11.0 vs 9.0, p = 0.011) and a lower decline of respiratory sub-score of ALSFRS-R compared to non-regularly exercising patients (0 vs 1.0, p = 0.026). Bulbar onset was a negative prognostic factor for regular exercise (odds ratio [OR]: 5.2, p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: The majority of ALS patients perform regular PA and find it positively influence their motor performance and mood. Bulbar disease onset, but not functional status, is a negative prognostic factor for regular exercise in ALS patients. Regular mild PA may result in a slower deterioration of functional status, especially the respiratory function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Sznajder
- Department of Rehabilitation, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education inWarsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Centre of Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Barć
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Centre of Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kuźma-Kozakiewicz
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Centre of Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen GX, Douwes J, den Berg LH, Glass B, McLean D, ’t Mannetje AM. Sports and trauma as risk factors for Motor Neurone Disease: New Zealand case-control study. Acta Neurol Scand 2022; 145:770-785. [PMID: 35355246 PMCID: PMC9321578 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To assess whether sports, physical trauma and emotional trauma are associated with motor neurone disease (MND) in a New Zealand case–control study (2013–2016). Methods In total, 321 MND cases and 605 population controls were interviewed collecting information on lifetime histories of playing sports, physical trauma (head injury with concussion, spine injury) and emotional trauma (14 categories). ORs were estimated using logistic regression adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education, smoking status, alcohol consumption and mutually adjusting for all other exposures. Results Head injury with concussion ≥3 years before diagnosis was associated with MND (OR 1.51, 95% CI: 1.09–2.09), with strongest associations for two (OR 4.01, 95% CI: 1.82–8.86), and three or more (OR 2.34, 95% CI: 1.00–5.45) head injuries. Spine injury was not associated with MND (OR 0.81, 95% CI: 0.48–1.36). Compared to never playing sports, engaging in sports throughout childhood and adulthood increased MND risk (OR 1.81, 95% CI: 1.01–3.25), as was more than 12 years playing football/soccer (OR 2.35, 95% CI: 1.19–4.65). Reporting emotionally traumatic events in more than three categories was associated with MND (OR 1.88, 95% CI: 1.17–3.03), with physical childhood abuse the only specific emotional trauma associated with MND (OR 1.82, 95% CI: 1.14–2.90), particularly for those reporting longer abuse duration (OR(5–8 years) 2.26, 95% CI: 1.14–4.49; OR(>8 years) 3.01, 95% CI: 1.18–7.70). For females, having witnessed another person being killed, seriously injured or assaulted also increased MND risk (OR 2.68, 95% CI: 1.06–6.76). Conclusions This study adds to the evidence that repeated head injury with concussion, playing sports in general, and playing football (soccer) in particular, are associated with an increased risk of MND. Emotional trauma, that is physical abuse in childhood, may also play a role.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace Xia Chen
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health Massey University Wellington New Zealand
| | - Jeroen Douwes
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health Massey University Wellington New Zealand
| | - Leonard H. den Berg
- Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, Department of Neurology University Medical Centre Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Bill Glass
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health Massey University Wellington New Zealand
| | - David McLean
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health Massey University Wellington New Zealand
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wannarong T, Ungprasert P. Diabetes mellitus is associated with a lower risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2020; 199:106248. [PMID: 33031990 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2020.106248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Previous studies have suggested that diabetes mellitus (DM) could be a protective factor against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) although the results are inconsistent. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate this relationship by identifying all available studies and summarizing their results. METHODS A systematic review was conducted in MEDLINE and EMBASE database from inception to January 1st, 2020 to identify cohort studies and case-control studies that investigated the risk of development of ALS among patients with DM versus individuals without DM. Point estimates and standard errors from eligible studies were pooled together using the generic inverse variance method, as described by DerSimonian and Laird. Visualization of the funnel plot was used to assess for the presence of publication bias. RESULTS A total of 1683 articles were identified by the search strategy. After two rounds of review, three cohort studies and eight case-control studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The risk of developing ALS was significantly lower among patients with DM than individuals without DM with the pooled relative risk of 0.68 (95 % CI, 0.55 - 0.84; I2 81 %). The funnel plot was relatively symmetric and was not suggestive of the presence of publication bias. CONCLUSION A significantly decreased risk of ALS among patients with DM was observed in this meta-analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thapat Wannarong
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 11100 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44118, USA
| | - Patompong Ungprasert
- Department of Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Schram S, Loeb JA, Song F. Disease propagation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): an interplay between genetics and environment. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:175. [PMID: 32505190 PMCID: PMC7276078 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01849-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal disease affecting the neuromuscular system. While there have been a number of important genetic discoveries, there are no therapeutics capable of stopping its insidious progression. Lessons from clinical histories reveal that ALS can start focally at a single limb, but then segmentally spread up and down the spinal cord as well as in the motor cortex and cortex of frontal and temporal lobes until respiratory muscles fail. With or without a clear genetic etiology, often there is no explanation as to why it starts in one region of the body versus another. Similarly, once the disease starts the mechanisms by which the neurodegenerative process spreads are not known. Here, we summarize recent work in animal models that support the hypothesis that critical environmental contributions, such as a nerve injury, can initiate the disease process. We also propose that pathological axoglial signaling by the glial growth factor neuregulin-1 leads to the slow propagation of neuroinflammation resulting in neurodegeneration up and down the spinal cord and that locally applied drugs that block neuregulin-1 signaling could slow or halt the spread of disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schram
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, University of Illinois at Chicago, NPI North Bldg., Room 657, M/C 796, 912 S. Wood Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Loeb
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, University of Illinois at Chicago, NPI North Bldg., Room 657, M/C 796, 912 S. Wood Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Fei Song
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, University of Illinois at Chicago, NPI North Bldg., Room 657, M/C 796, 912 S. Wood Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jones KE, Berry TR, Merali AS, Bello-Haas VD. Intentions of Canadian health professionals towards recommending exercise for people living with ALS. BMC Neurol 2019; 19:204. [PMID: 31438881 PMCID: PMC6706893 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-019-1426-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To provide a nationwide overview of the attitudes, social pressure, perceived ability and intentions of health professionals toward exercise prescription for people living with ALS (pALS). Methods An online survey of physician and non-physician health professionals (HPs) working in academic ALS clinics across Canada. Results The response rate was 48% (84/176) with 30% of respondents identifying as physicians, 63% as other HPs and the remainder as administrative or research personnel. Respondents were sharply divided in their intentions to provide exercise counsel: 24% unlikely and 45% likely. Respondents with low intentions were HPs that considered this activity outside their scope of practice. Measures of intention and attitude were more positive for flexibility compared to strength and aerobic exercise. Perceptions of social pressure and ability to provide exercise counsel were significantly correlated with intention across the three exercise modes in all respondents. Qualitative themes identified as barriers to exercise prescription were lack of confidence or competence (31% physicians, 32% HP), patient tolerance (30% HP), lack of evidence (22% physicians) and lack of infrastructure (22% physicians). Conclusions While “lack of evidence” for the benefit of exercise was a deterrent for physicians, the larger issue for all respondents was building competence and confidence in exercise prescription for pALS. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12883-019-1426-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelvin E Jones
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. .,Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
| | - Tanya R Berry
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Aaliya S Merali
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lian L, Liu M, Cui L, Guan Y, Liu T, Cui B, Zhang K, Tai H, Shen D. Environmental risk factors and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): A case-control study of ALS in China. J Clin Neurosci 2019; 66:12-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2019.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
12
|
Ning P, Yang B, Li S, Mu X, Shen Q, Hu F, Tang Y, Yang X, Xu Y. Systematic review of the prognostic role of body mass index in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2019; 20:356-367. [PMID: 30931632 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2019.1587631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Ning
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, P.R. China,
| | - Baiyuan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Seventh People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, P.R. China,
| | - Shuangjiang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, P.R. China,
| | - Xin Mu
- Department of Neurology, Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, P.R. China and
| | - Qiuyan Shen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, P.R. China,
| | - Fayun Hu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, P.R. China,
| | - Yao Tang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, P.R. China,
| | - Xinglong Yang
- Department of Geriatric Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, P.R. China
| | - Yanming Xu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, P.R. China,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dardiotis E, Siokas V, Sokratous M, Tsouris Z, Aloizou AM, Florou D, Dastamani M, Mentis AFA, Brotis AG. Body mass index and survival from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A meta-analysis. Neurol Clin Pract 2018; 8:437-444. [PMID: 30564498 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Several studies have examined the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and survival from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Many indicate that low BMI at diagnosis or during follow-up may be associated with accelerated progression and shortened survival. This study systematically evaluated the relationship between BMI and survival in patients with ALS. Methods The PubMed database was searched to identify all available studies reporting time-to-event data. Eight studies with 6,098 patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria. BMI was considered a continuous and ordered variable. Interstudy heterogeneity was assessed by the Cochran Q test and quantified by the I2 metric. Fixed- or random-effects odds ratios summarized pooled effects after taking interstudy variability into account. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results The ALS survival hazard ratio (HR) decreased approximately by 3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2%-5%) for each additional BMI unit when BMI was considered a continuous variable. When BMI was considered a categorical variable, the HRs for "normal" BMI vs "overweight" BMI and "obese" BMI were estimated to be as high as 0.91 (95% CI: 0.79-1.04) and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.60-1.01), respectively. The HR for the comparison of the "normal" BMI vs "underweight" BMI was estimated to be as high as 1.94 (95% CI: 1.42-2.65). Conclusions BMI is significantly and inversely associated with ALS survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Maria Sokratous
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Tsouris
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Desponia Florou
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Metaxia Dastamani
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexios-Fotios A Mentis
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bea JW, Going SB, Wertheim BC, Bassford TL, LaCroix AZ, Wright NC, Nicholas JS, Heymsfield SB, Chen Z. Body composition and physical function in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. Prev Med Rep 2018; 11:15-22. [PMID: 30065910 PMCID: PMC6066466 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2018.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical function is critical for mobility and quality of life. We hypothesized that higher total lean mass is associated with higher physical function, and body fat inversely associated, among postmenopausal women. Women's Health Initiative Observational Study participants at Pittsburgh, PA; Birmingham, AL; and Tucson-Phoenix, AZ (1993–1998) completed dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans and the Rand SF-36 questionnaire at baseline and 3 y (N = 4526). Associations between quartiles (Q1–4) of lean or fat mass and physical function were tested using linear regression, adjusted for demographics, lifestyle factors, medical history, and scanner serial number. At baseline, participants had a mean ± SD age of 63.4 ± 7.4 y and BMI of 27.4 ± 5.8 kg/m2. Higher percent lean mass was positively associated with physical function at baseline (Q4, 83.6 ± 0.6 versus Q1, 74.6 ± 0.7; p < 0.001), while fat mass (kg and %) was inversely associated (e.g., Q4, 73.7 ± 0.7 versus Q1, 84.2 ± 0.7 kg; ptrend < 0.001). Physical function had declined across the cohort at 3 y; the highest relative lean mass quartile at baseline conferred a lesser decline in physical function than the lowest (Q4, −3.3 ± 0.6 versus Q1–7.0 ± 0.6; ptrend < 0.001), while the highest fat mass quartile (% and kg) conferred greater decline (ex. Kg Q4, −6.7 ± 0.7 versus Q1–2.8 ± 0.6; ptrend < 0.001). Increased fat mass (≥5%), but not lean mass, was associated with lower physical function at 3 y (p < 0.001). Adiposity, as well as lean mass, requires consideration in the prediction of physical function among postmenopausal women over time. Lean mass (%) is positively associated with physical function in menopause. Body fat is negatively associated with physical function in menopause. Decline in physical function is more rapid with gains in fat during menopause. Body composition influence on functional decline is more evident among women <65 y.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer W. Bea
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Arizona, 3950 S Country Club Rd., Ste 330, Tucson, AZ 85714, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, 1515 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, 1515 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- Corresponding author at: 1515 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
| | - Scott B. Going
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Arizona, 3950 S Country Club Rd., Ste 330, Tucson, AZ 85714, USA
| | - Betsy C. Wertheim
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, 1515 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Tamsen L. Bassford
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, 1515 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Andrea Z. LaCroix
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0725, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Nicole C. Wright
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1665 University Blvd., Ryals Public Health Building, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Jennifer S. Nicholas
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Arizona, 1295 N. Martin Ave., P.O. Box 245210, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Steven B. Heymsfield
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, 6400 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
| | - Zhao Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Arizona, 1295 N. Martin Ave., P.O. Box 245210, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
O'Reilly ÉJ, Wang M, Adami HO, Alonso A, Bernstein L, van den Brandt P, Buring J, Daugherty S, Deapen D, Freedman DM, English DR, Giles GG, Håkansson N, Kurth T, Schairer C, Weiderpass E, Wolk A, Smith-Warner SA. Prediagnostic body size and risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis death in 10 studies. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2018; 19:396-406. [PMID: 29658324 PMCID: PMC6423444 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2018.1452944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES AND METHODS Using pooled multivariable-adjusted rate ratios (RR), we explored relationships between prediagnostic body-mass-index (BMI), waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR), and weight-gain during adulthood, and ALS in 419,894 women and 148,166 men from 10 community-based cohorts in USA, Europe, and Australia; 428 ALS deaths were documented in women and 204 in men. RESULTS Higher mid-to-later adulthood BMI was associated with lower ALS mortality. For 5 kg/m2 increased BMI, the rate was 15% lower (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4-24%; p = 0.005). Although a clear linear trend was not evident for WHR at enrollment (p = 0.099) individuals in the highest cohort-specific quartile had 27% (95% CI: 0-47%; p = 0.053) lower ALS compared to those in the lowest. BMI in early adulthood did not predict ALS; fewer than 10% of participants had early adulthood BMI >25 kg/m2, limiting power. Weight-gain during adulthood was strongly associated with lower ALS; for an additional 1kg gain in weight/year, the RR = 0.43 (95% CI: 0.28-0.65; p < 0.001). Associations persisted when adjusted for diabetes at enrollment, restricted to never-smokers, and ALS deaths in the 5 years after enrollment were excluded (accounting for recent weight loss). CONCLUSIONS These findings confirm somewhat conflicting, underpowered evidence that adiposity is inversely associated with ALS. We newly demonstrate that weight-gain during adulthood is strongly predictive of lower ALS risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Éilis J O'Reilly
- a Department of Nutrition , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
- b School of Public Health, College of Medicine , University College Cork , Cork , Ireland
| | - Molin Wang
- c Channing Division of Network Medicine , Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
- d Department of Epidemiology , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Hans-Olov Adami
- e Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Alvaro Alonso
- f Department of Epidemiology , Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Leslie Bernstein
- g Division of Cancer Etiology, Department of Population Science , Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope National Medical Center , Duarte , CA , USA
| | - Piet van den Brandt
- h Department of Epidemiology, School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW) , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - Julie Buring
- d Department of Epidemiology , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
- i Division of Preventive Medicine , Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Sarah Daugherty
- j CER Methods & Infrastructure , Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute , Washington, DC , USA
| | - Dennis Deapen
- g Division of Cancer Etiology, Department of Population Science , Beckman Research Institute and City of Hope National Medical Center , Duarte , CA , USA
| | - D Michal Freedman
- k Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics , National Cancer Institute , Rockville , MD , USA
| | - Dallas R English
- l Cancer Epidemiology Centre, Cancer Council of Victoria , Melbourne , Australia
- m Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics , Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Graham G Giles
- l Cancer Epidemiology Centre, Cancer Council of Victoria , Melbourne , Australia
- m Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics , Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Niclas Håkansson
- n Division of Nutritional Epidemiology , National Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Tobias Kurth
- d Department of Epidemiology , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
- i Division of Preventive Medicine , Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
- o Institute of Public Health , Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin , Germany
| | - Catherine Schairer
- k Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics , National Cancer Institute , Rockville , MD , USA
| | - Elisabete Weiderpass
- e Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
- p Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway , Tromsø , Norway
- q Department of Research , Cancer Registry of Norway , Oslo , Norway , and
- r Genetic Epidemiology Group , Folkhälsan Research Center , Helsinki , Finland
| | - Alicja Wolk
- n Division of Nutritional Epidemiology , National Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Stephanie A Smith-Warner
- a Department of Nutrition , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
- d Department of Epidemiology , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Visser AE, Rooney JPK, D'Ovidio F, Westeneng HJ, Vermeulen RCH, Beghi E, Chiò A, Logroscino G, Hardiman O, Veldink JH, van den Berg LH. Multicentre, cross-cultural, population-based, case-control study of physical activity as risk factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2018; 89:797-803. [PMID: 29685899 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2017-317724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between physical activity (PA) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in population-based case-control studies in three European countries using a validated and harmonised questionnaire. METHODS Patients with incident ALS and controls were recruited from five population-based registers in The Netherlands, Ireland and Italy. Demographic and data regarding educational level, smoking, alcohol habits and lifetime PA levels in both leisure and work time were gathered by questionnaire, and quantified using metabolic equivalent of task scores. Logistic regression models adjusting for PA-related factors were used to determine the association between PA and ALS risk, and forest plots were used to visualise heterogeneity between regions. RESULTS 1557 patients and 2922 controls were included. We found a linear association between ALS and PA in leisure time (OR 1.07, P=0.01) and occupational activities (OR 1.06, P<0.001), and all activities combined (OR 1.06, P<0.001), with some heterogeneity between regions: the most evident association was seen in the Irish and Italian cohorts. After adjustment for other occupational exposures or exclusion of patients with a C9orf72 mutation, the ORs remained similar. CONCLUSION We provide new class I evidence for a positive association between PA and risk of ALS in a large multicentre study using harmonised methodology to objectively quantify PA levels, with some suggestions for population differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne E Visser
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - James P K Rooney
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fabrizio D'Ovidio
- "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Henk-Jan Westeneng
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roel C H Vermeulen
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ettore Beghi
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS - Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri", Milan, Italy
| | - Adriano Chiò
- "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- Unit of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Clinical Research in Neurology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Pia Fondazione Cardinale G. Panico, Lecce, Italy.,Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jan H Veldink
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Leonard H van den Berg
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Riancho J, Bosque-Varela P, Perez-Pereda S, Povedano M, de Munaín AL, Santurtun A. The increasing importance of environmental conditions in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2018; 62:1361-1374. [PMID: 29713861 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-018-1550-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons (MNs). Although a small percentage of ALS has a familial origin, the vast majority of cases are sporadic in which genetic factors and environment interact with each other leading to disease onset in genetically predisposed individuals. In the current model of the disease, each individual has a determined genetic load, some degree of cell degeneration related to age and several risky environmental exposures. In this scenario, MN degeneration would occur when the sum of these factors reach a certain threshold. To date, an extensive list of environmental factors has been associated to ALS, including different categories, such as exposure to heavy metals and other toxicants, cyanotoxins or infectious agents. In addition, in recent years, lifestyle and other demographic parameters are gaining relevance in the genesis of the disease. Among them, physical activity, nutrition, body mass index, cardiovascular risk factors, autoimmune diseases and cancer are some of the conditions which have been related to the disease. In this review, we will discuss the potential mechanisms of environmental conditions in motor neuron degeneration. Understanding the role of each one of these factors as well as their interactions appears as a crucial step in order to develop new preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for ALS patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Riancho
- Service of Neurology, Hospital Sierrallana, Institute of Research Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Torrelavega, Spain.
- Department of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, CIBERNED, Instituto Carlos III, Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pilar Bosque-Varela
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital Marques de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - Sara Perez-Pereda
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital Marques de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - Mónica Povedano
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, CIBERNED, Instituto Carlos III, Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, Madrid, Spain
- Service of Neurology-Motor Neuron Unit, IDIBELL, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adolfo López de Munaín
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, CIBERNED, Instituto Carlos III, Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, Madrid, Spain
- ALS Multidisciplinary Unit, Hospital Donostia- Neuroscience Area, Donostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Ana Santurtun
- Toxicology Unit, Physiology and Farmacology Department, University of Cantabria-IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Klemann C, Visser J, Van Den Bosch L, Martens G, Poelmans G. Integrated molecular landscape of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis provides insights into disease etiology. Brain Pathol 2018; 28:203-211. [PMID: 28035716 PMCID: PMC8028446 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe, progressive and ultimately fatal motor neuron disease caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but its underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. To gain insight into the etiology of ALS, we here conducted genetic network and literature analyses of the top-ranked findings from six genome-wide association studies of sporadic ALS (involving 3589 cases and 8577 controls) as well as genes implicated in ALS etiology through other evidence, including familial ALS candidate gene association studies. We integrated these findings into a molecular landscape of ALS that allowed the identification of three main processes that interact with each other and are crucial to maintain axonal functionality, especially of the long axons of motor neurons, i.e. (1) Rho-GTPase signaling; (2) signaling involving the three regulatory molecules estradiol, folate, and methionine; and (3) ribonucleoprotein granule functioning and axonal transport. Interestingly, estradiol signaling is functionally involved in all three cascades and as such an important mediator of the molecular ALS landscape. Furthermore, epidemiological findings together with an analysis of possible gender effects in our own cohort of sporadic ALS patients indicated that estradiol may be a protective factor, especially for bulbar-onset ALS. Taken together, our molecular landscape of ALS suggests that abnormalities within three interconnected molecular processes involved in the functioning and maintenance of motor neuron axons are important in the etiology of ALS. Moreover, estradiol appears to be an important modulator of the ALS landscape, providing important clues for the development of novel disease-modifying treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C.J.H.M. Klemann
- Department of Molecular Animal PhysiologyDonders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud UniversityNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - J.E. Visser
- Department of Molecular Animal PhysiologyDonders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud UniversityNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Department of NeurologyDonders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Department of NeurologyAmphia HospitalBredaThe Netherlands
| | - L. Van Den Bosch
- Department of NeurosciencesLaboratory of Neurobiology, Experimental Neurology, KU Leuven and VIB, Vesalius Research CenterLeuvenBelgium
| | - G.J.M. Martens
- Department of Molecular Animal PhysiologyDonders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud UniversityNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - G. Poelmans
- Department of Molecular Animal PhysiologyDonders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud UniversityNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Department of Human GeneticsRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ho DT, Russell JA. Mercury and motor neuron disease: Hooked on a hypothesis. Muscle Nerve 2018; 58:7-9. [PMID: 29443385 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Doreen T Ho
- Department of Neurology, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James A Russell
- Department of Neurology, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Åberg M, Nyberg J, Robertson J, Kuhn G, Schiöler L, Nissbrandt H, Waern M, Torén K. Risk factors in Swedish young men for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in adulthood. J Neurol 2017; 265:460-470. [PMID: 29285652 PMCID: PMC5834569 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-017-8719-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recent research suggests that the incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may be on the rise. Since ALS becomes predominant in later life, most studies on causal factors are conducted in middle-aged or older populations where potentially important influences from early life can usually not be adequately captured. We aimed to investigate predictors in young Swedish men for ALS in adulthood. Therefore, we performed a prospective cohort study of young men (aged 16-25, n = 1,819,817) who enlisted 1968-2005 and took part in comprehensive conscription examinations. Incident cases of ALS (n = 526) during up to 46 years of follow-up were identified in the National Hospital Register and Swedish Cause of Death Register. Those who developed ALS had lower BMI (body mass index) at conscription than their peers (p = 0.03). The risk of ALS during follow-up was calculated with Cox proportional hazards models. No associations were found with physical fitness, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or non-psychotic mental disorders. Low overall muscle strength compared to high overall muscle strength [hazard ratio (HR) 1.36; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.83] and low BMI (a one-unit increase HR 0.96; 95% CI 0.93-0.99) and lower erythrocyte volume fraction (a one-unit increase HR 0.96; 95% CI 0.92-0.998) were the statistically significant predictors for ALS in adjusted models. These findings provide novel epidemiologic evidence of a prospective association between low overall muscle strength and erythrocyte volume fraction in young men and ALS risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Åberg
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine/Primary Health Care, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 454, 405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Jenny Nyberg
- Centre for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute for Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Josefina Robertson
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine/Primary Health Care, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 454, 405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Georg Kuhn
- Centre for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute for Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Linus Schiöler
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hans Nissbrandt
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Margda Waern
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kjell Torén
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bea JW, Thomson CA, Wallace RB, Wu C, Seguin RA, Going SB, LaCroix A, Eaton C, Ockene JK, LaMonte MJ, Jackson R, Jerry Mysiw W, Wactawski-Wende J. Changes in physical activity, sedentary time, and risk of falling: The Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. Prev Med 2017; 95:103-109. [PMID: 27932054 PMCID: PMC5289299 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2016.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Falling significantly affects quality of life, morbidity, and mortality among older adults. We sought to evaluate the prospective association between sedentary time, physical activity, and falling among post-menopausal women aged 50-79years recruited to the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study between 1993 and 1998 from 40 clinical centers across the United States. Baseline (B) and change in each of the following were evaluated at year 3 (Y3) and year 6 (Y6; baseline n=93,676; Y3 n=76,598; Y6 n=75,428): recreational physical activity (MET-h/wk), sitting, sleeping (min/day), and lean body mass by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (subset N=6475). Falls per year (0, 1, 2, ≥3) were assessed annually by self-report questionnaire and then dichotomized as ≤1 and ≥2falls/year. Logistic regression models were adjusted for demographics, body mass index, fall history, tobacco and alcohol use, medical conditions, and medications. Higher baseline activity was associated with greater risk of falling at Y6 (18%; p for trend <0.0001). Increasing sedentary time minimally decreased falling (1% Y3; 2% Y6; p<0.05). Increasing activity up to ≥9MET-h/wk. (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.03-1.22) or maintaining ≥9MET-h/wk. (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.13-1.29) increased falling at Y3 and Y6 (p for trend <0.001). Adding lean body mass to the models attenuated these relationships. Physically active lifestyles increased falling among post-menopausal women. Additional fall prevention strategies, such as balance and resistance training, should be evaluated to assist post-menopausal women in reaching or maintaining levels of aerobic activity known to prevent and manage several chronic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer W Bea
- University of Arizona, Cancer Center, 1515 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724, United States.
| | - Cynthia A Thomson
- University of Arizona, 3950 S Country Club Rd., Suite 330, Tucson, AZ 85714, United States
| | - Robert B Wallace
- University of Iowa, 145 N Riverside Dr., Iowa City, IA 52242, United States
| | - Chunyuan Wu
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, M3-A410, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
| | - Rebecca A Seguin
- Cornell University, Savage Hall, Room 412, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Scott B Going
- University of Arizona, 3950 S Country Club Rd., Suite 330, Tucson, AZ 85714, United States
| | - Andrea LaCroix
- University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., #0725, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States
| | - Charles Eaton
- Brown University, 111 Brewster Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860, United States
| | - Judith K Ockene
- University of Massachusetts, 55 Lake Ave North, S7-746, Worcester, MA 01655, United States
| | - Michael J LaMonte
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 273 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
| | - Rebecca Jackson
- Ohio State University, 376 W 10th Avenue, Suite 205, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - W Jerry Mysiw
- Ohio State University, 2050 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH 43221, United States
| | - Jean Wactawski-Wende
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 410 Kimball Hall, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
The limitations of opportunistic epidemiology, pseudopod epidemiology. Eur J Epidemiol 2016; 31:957-966. [DOI: 10.1007/s10654-016-0196-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
23
|
Mehta P, Kaye W, Bryan L, Larson T, Copeland T, Wu J, Muravov O, Horton K. Prevalence of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis - United States, 2012-2013. MMWR. SURVEILLANCE SUMMARIES : MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT. SURVEILLANCE SUMMARIES 2016; 65:1-12. [PMID: 27490513 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.ss6508a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM/CONDITION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive and fatal neuromuscular disease for which no cure or viable treatment has been identified. ALS, like most noncommunicable diseases, is not a nationally notifiable disease in the United States. The prevalence of ALS in the United States during 2010-2011 was estimated to be 3.9 cases per 100,000 persons in the general population. Updated prevalence estimates are needed to help monitor disease status, better understand etiology, and identify risk factors for ALS. PERIOD COVERED 2012-2013. DESCRIPTION OF SYSTEM The National ALS Registry, established in 2009, collects data on ALS patients in the United States to better describe the incidence and prevalence of ALS, examine risk factors such as environmental and occupational exposures, and characterize the demographics of those living with ALS. To identify prevalent cases of ALS, data are compiled from four national administrative databases (maintained by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Veterans Health Administration, and the Veterans Benefits Administration). To identify cases not included in these databases and to better understand risk-factors associated with ALS and disease progression, the Registry also includes data that are collected from patients who voluntarily enroll and complete online surveys. RESULTS During 2012 and 2013, the Registry identified 14,713 and 15,908 persons, respectively, who met the surveillance case definition of ALS. The estimated ALS prevalence rate was 4.7 cases per 100,000 U.S. population for 2012 and 5.0 per 100,000 for 2013. Due to revisions to the algorithm and use of death data from the National Death Index, an updated prevalence estimate has been calculated retrospectively for October 19, 2010-December 31, 2011. This updated estimate showed a prevalence rate of 4.3 per 100,000 population and a total of 13,282 cases. Since the inception of the Registry, the pattern of characteristics (e.g., age, sex, and race/ethnicity) among persons with ALS have remained unchanged. Overall, ALS was more common among whites, males, and persons aged 60-69 years. The age groups with the lowest number of ALS cases were persons aged 18-39 years and those aged ≥80 years. Males had a higher prevalence rate of ALS than females overall and across all data sources. These findings remained consistent during October 2010-December 2013. INTERPRETATION The Registry is the only available data source that can be used to estimate the national prevalence for ALS in the United States. Use of both administrative national databases and self-report from patients enables a comprehensive approach to estimate ALS prevalence. The overall increase in the prevalence rate from 4.3 per 100,000 persons (revised) during 2010-2011 to 4.7 and 5.0 per 100,000 persons, respectively, during 2012-2013 likely is not an actual increase in the number of ALS cases. Rather, this increase might be attributed to improved case ascertainment due to the refinement of the algorithm used to identify definite ALS cases, along with an increased public awareness of the Registry. Registry estimates of ALS prevalence are consistent with findings from long-established ALS registries in Europe and from smaller-scale epidemiologic studies previously conducted in the United States. PUBLIC HEALTH ACTIONS Data collected by the National ALS Registry are being used to better describe the epidemiology of ALS in the United States and to help facilitate research. The combined approach of using national administrative databases and a self-enrollment web portal to collect data is novel and potentially could be used for other non-notifiable diseases such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis. Increased public awareness of the Registry might lead to more ALS cases being identified from the secure web portal (https://www.cdc.gov/als), which can ascertain cases apart from the national administrative databases. For example, in 2014, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, a social media-centered campaign, received extensive public visibility and created increased awareness of ALS. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) works closely with ALS advocacy and support groups, researchers, health care professionals, and others to promote the National ALS Registry and to identify all cases of ALS in the United States. In addition to estimating the prevalence of ALS, the Registry is being used to collect specimens from patient enrollees through a new biorepository, connect patient enrollees with new clinical trials and epidemiologic studies, and fund studies to help learn more about the etiology of ALS. Additional information about the National ALS Registry is available at http://www.cdc.gov/als or by calling toll-free at 1-877-442-9719.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Mehta
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ascherio A, O'Reilly EJ. New insights on physical activity and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Eur J Epidemiol 2016; 31:213-5. [PMID: 26955829 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-016-0133-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|