A recent study led by Michigan Medicine reveals that living in disadvantaged communities may significantly shorten survival times for individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The research, which analyzed data from over 1,000 ALS patients between 2012 and mid-2024, found that those from the most disadvantaged neighborhoods had survival times up to 37% shorter compared to those from more resourced areas.
The study highlights the impact of social determinants of health on ALS outcomes. Factors such as income, education, employment, and housing play a crucial role in determining the survival rates of ALS patients. Senior author Stephen Goutman, M.D., M.S., emphasized the importance of understanding how socioeconomic factors contribute to ALS survival. He stated, “Our results show a significant link between adverse social determinants of health and shorter survival in patients with ALS”.
The cost of caring for someone with ALS is tremendous, with out-of-pocket expenses reaching up to $250,000 annually. Researchers note that more resourced patients often have access to additional care, which can help limit caregiver burnout. Addressing these disparities is crucial for making ALS a more livable disease and reducing the impact of health disparities.
In summary, the study underscores the urgent need for interventions to improve access to care and reduce health disparities in ALS treatment. Efforts to address these issues are essential for improving the lives of people with ALS and ensuring equitable healthcare for all.
See: “ALS Survival May Be Cut Short by Living in Disadvantaged Communities” (February 7, 2025)
