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You\u2019re probably aware that if your older family member has high cholesterol, they are at greater risk of developing cardiovascular problems. It turns out that it may also increase their chances of developing a serious and fatal disease called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that progressively impairs muscle movement. Most people who get the disease die within 2 to 5 years.<\/p>\n
Research Concerning Cholesterol and ALS<\/strong><\/p>\n A recent study conducted by researchers from the Laboratory of Neurogenetics in the NIA Intramural Research program and their colleagues from around the world. The scientists looked at data collected from existing studies, almost 21,000 cases of ALS, and 59,000 controls. They found that having high levels of LDL, or \u201cbad,\u201d cholesterol increased the risk of developing ALS. Interestingly, they also found that smoking raised risks as did having a lower level of education.<\/p>\n Other Risk Factors for ALS<\/strong><\/p>\n More research is needed before experts can establish high cholesterol as one of the known risk factors for ALS. Currently known risk factors for the disease include:<\/p>\n