This article provides an in-depth overview of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), highlighting its types, causes, risk factors, and ongoing research efforts. It features the story of Stephen Hawking, emphasizing the progressive nature of ALS and current treatment approaches aimed at improving patient quality of life.

Stephen Hawking, the renowned physicist from Cambridge, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) at age 21. Despite grim early predictions, he has defied the odds and is now 75 years old, living with the condition. ALS is a progressive neurological disease that destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, often resulting in paralysis. It primarily occurs in two forms: sporadic, which makes up approximately 95% of cases in the United States, and inherited familial types. Although there is no cure yet, treatments focus on prolonging life and enhancing quality. The disease gradually weakens muscles, impairing movement, speech, swallowing, and breathing. The exact cause remains uncertain, with potential influences including chemical imbalances, immune responses, and faulty protein processing. Risk factors include age, gender, and genetics, with men aged 40 to 60 being the most vulnerable. Researchers are actively exploring new insights into understanding and managing ALS.