environmental risk factors

Exposure to certain toxic airborne chemicals used in industry significantly increases — by up to six times — the odds of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a study suggests. Findings underscore the importance of surveillance programs testing exposure to these airborne pollutants, especially among populations at risk. The study,…

Researchers at the University of Michigan are focused on establishing cause and effect relationships between environmental and occupational exposures with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). They hope this information will shed light on the mechanisms behind the disease and identify modifiable risk factors, which may have implications in preventing ALS.

A new rapid test is under development that will be able to detect seafood and water levels of an environmental toxin called beta-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), the exposure to which has been implicated as a risk factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The efforts will be spearheaded by Brain Chemistry…

Head trauma, electrical burns, and hobbies involving the toxic metal lead appear to be risk factors for developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a U.S.-based study found. Holding a job in mechanics, painting, or construction also significantly increase the chances of developing the disease, researchers noted. The study, “…

Exposure to a neurotoxic molecule produced by blue-green algae seems to raise a person’s odds of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), particularly for those under 65, a population-based study from Italy shows. The research examined individuals who lived close to freshwater systems — a river, lake, even a…

Agriculture and other areas that expose people to pesticides, paint solvents, electromagnetic fields, and heavy metals may increase their odds of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a population-based study from Italy shows. But larger studies are needed to confirm these findings, its researchers wrote, as only some risk factors…