A recent study by the Institute of Environmental Medicine (IMM) suggests that heart and metabolic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, may influence the risk and progression of motor neuron diseases (MNDs) such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to the Karolinska Institute.
MNDs are rare but serious disorders that affect the nervous system, causing muscle weakness and loss of mobility. Although the exact causes remain unclear, this study provides new insights into potential factors that could improve prevention and treatment.
The study analyzed data from 1,463 people in Sweden diagnosed with MND between 2015 and 2023. These cases were compared with nearly 7,300 individuals without MND and more than 3,200 of their relatives.
The findings showed that having type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol at least five years before an MND diagnosis was linked to a lower risk of developing the disease. However, in the year before diagnosis, patients were more likely to have been diagnosed with these conditions.
Researchers believe these results could help identify new ways to prevent or treat MND by exploring the connection between heart health and neurological disorders.