Best Practice Case Studies-Exercise and ALS KA

Pdf Summary

The article reviews the link between physical activity (PA) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), examining studies from 2009 to 2021. ALS, a lethal neurodegenerative disorder, is primarily associated with male sex and aging as risk factors. However, the potential role of PA in increasing ALS risk has been debated. Recent high-powered studies using validated methodologies tend to show a correlation between strenuous physical activity, particularly anaerobic exercises, and increased ALS risk. The Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN) conducted this review.<br /><br />Researchers analyzed 93 studies, seeking to reconcile discrepancies and observed commonalities, such as soccer as a recurring theme due to the high incidence of ALS among players. The review attempts to account for genetic predispositions, like mutations in the C9ORF72 gene, which is the most common genetic cause of ALS. The C9ORF72 mutation's penetrance significantly varies, which interacts with environmental elements such as PA.<br /><br />Some newer methodologies like Mendelian randomization and validated questionnaires like HAPAQ support the link between strenuous PA and ALS, though challenges in research persist. These include study biases, the variability in PA categorization, and the difficulty in assessing lifetime PA.<br /><br />Future studies are recommended to focus on at-risk genotypes to better understand genetic-environmental interactions, potentially aiding in personalized medical advice and preventative strategies. The review underscores the complex interplay of genetics and environment in ALS development, with PA as a noteworthy, albeit controversial, risk factor. Addressing these nuances could advance both ALS prevention and personalized treatment regimes.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 37

Topic Neurology

Keywords

3rd Edition, CASE 37

3rd Edition

Neurology

physical activity

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

neurodegenerative disorder

strenuous exercise

C9ORF72 gene

SITraN

genetic predispositions

Mendelian randomization

personalized medicine

ALS prevention