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Motor neuron disease on Guam: temporal occurrence, 1941-85
Z X Zhang1, D W Anderson, N Mantel
1Neuroepidemiology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-9135, USA.
Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Motor neuron disease (MND) risk on Guam has decreased since the 1950s, with later onset ages observed. Environmental changes appear to reduce the risk of developing this neurodegenerative condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Motor neuron disease (MND) presents unique epidemiological patterns in isolated populations.
- Guam has historically reported high rates of MND, prompting extensive research into potential environmental and genetic factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal trends and risk factors associated with motor neuron disease (MND) occurrence among the Chamorro population on Guam.
- To analyze changes in age at onset and incidence rates of MND over several decades.
Main Methods:
- A case registry was utilized to identify and document cases of MND with onset between 1941 and 1985.
- Data included demographic information, onset dates, and residential history for both Chamorro residents and non-Chamorro migrants.
Main Results:
- A decrease in age-adjusted incidence rates of MND was observed starting in the early 1960s.
- The median age at onset for MND increased over the study period.
- Evidence suggests a lengthening exposure or latent period and a reduction in high-risk acquisition periods since the early 1950s.
Conclusions:
- The findings indicate a declining risk and changing temporal dynamics of MND on Guam.
- Environmental factors and changes in exposure or latent periods likely play a significant role.
- Relocation from Guam during childhood was associated with a decreased risk, suggesting environmental influences.