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Mortality from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Finland, 1986-1995
P Maasilta1, M Jokelainen, M Löytönen
1Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland. paula.maasilta@helsinki.fi
Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|October 9, 2001
Summary
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mortality in Finland increased significantly between 1986 and 1995. This rise in ALS deaths correlates with increased life expectancy, with equal numbers of men and women affected.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease.
- Understanding trends in ALS mortality is crucial for public health planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mortality rates in Finland from 1986 to 1995.
- To analyze demographic patterns in ALS deaths during the study period.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Finnish Death Certificate Register for 1000 ALS deaths.
- Incorporated general population data from the Statistical Yearbooks of Finland.
Main Results:
- Observed an increase in ALS death rate from 1.54/100,000 in 1986 to 2.27/100,000 in 1995.
- Noted a tripling of ALS deaths since 1963, partly explained by increased life expectancy.
- Found equal numbers of male and female ALS deaths, with women being older at death.
Conclusions:
- ALS mortality in Finland shows a steady increasing trend, consistent with international patterns.
- Increased life expectancy may contribute to the observed rise in ALS mortality.