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Updated: May 15, 2026
12:43
A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Published on: February 21, 2011
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Catalonia: a population based study.
Jesús Pradas1, Teresa Puig, Ricard Rojas-García
1Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. jpradas@santpau.cat
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis & Frontotemporal Degeneration
|January 5, 2013
Summary
The incidence of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Catalonia, Spain, is 1.4 per 100,000 people annually, aligning with lower European rates. This study details the clinical and epidemiological profile of ALS patients in the region.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease.
- Understanding regional incidence and characteristics is crucial for public health planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and clinical-epidemiological features of ALS in Catalonia, Spain.
- To compare these findings with other European populations.
Main Methods:
- Population-based registry study in Catalonia from 1999-2001.
- Inclusion of 215 new ALS cases diagnosed using the El Escorial criteria.
- Data collection on demographics, onset, and survival.
Main Results:
- Annual crude ALS incidence rate of 1.4/100,000 (males: 1.6, females: 1.2).
- Peak incidence observed in the 75-79 age group.
- Median age at onset was 64.3 years, with 38% presenting bulbar or generalized onset.
Conclusions:
- ALS incidence in Catalonia falls within the lower range of European rates.
- Findings contribute to understanding geographic variations in ALS epidemiology.
- The study provides essential data for regional healthcare strategies and resource allocation.
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